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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 



ShellL.JJ..3 'c^^ 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



THE WATER GARDEN 



PRESS OF 

A T. DE LA MARE PRINTING AND PUBLISHING CO , LTD, 

NEW YORK. 




rL\TK I. 

VICTORIA REGIA (TRICKER'S VARIETY) AND VICTORIA REGIA RANDII. 
These are both fine specimen plants, backed by Sour Gum and Wild Cherry trees, with Eulalia, Golden-Rod, 
Sumach, Cyperus, and Caladium on the bank, and festooned with the Wild Cucumber, most beautiful, 
graceful, and harmonious. Tricker's Variety is the plant at the back; Randi in foreground. 



THE 



WATER GARDEN 



EMBRACING 



THE CONSTRUCTION OF PONDS, ADAPTING NATURAL STREAMS. 

PLANTING, HYBRIDIZING, SEED SAVING, PROPAGATION, BUILDING 

AN AQUATIC HOUSE, WINTERING, CORRECT DESIGNING AND 

PLANTING OF BANKS AND MARGINS, TOGETHER 

WITH CULTURAL DIRECTIONS FOR ALL 

ORNAMENTAL AQUATICS 

BY 

WILLIAM TRICKLR 



PROFCSELV ILLCSIRAIEI^ WITH XIXE rLATES, EICIllEEX El'IJ. EACE 

DESCEIETIl-E IVEIIS, AXD XCMEEOCS 077/EA' SXEECZ/ES 

/X EHE TEXT 



''ST';" -* '/ 



NEW YORK 
A. T. DE LA .WARE PRINTING AND PUBLISHING COMPANY, LTD. 

1897 

AH rii;lity^ rvscrverl 



Coi)yriglit. 1807, 

I!Y 

A. T. Tie I. a Maiu; Ptc:. and Pi n. Co., I.td. 



PREFACE. 

OF late )-ears interest in the cultivation of aquatic plants has yrown 
enormously; not (.>nly are Water Lily ponds now features of our public 
parks and larger private i^ardens, but even in the back yard of the suburban 
resident one can frecjnently find a few tubs or a small tank, where the cultiva- 
tion of Water Lilies and of the Lotus is indulged. 

Snch widespread interest in a branch of horticultuix* which is com- 
paratively new seems to demand a practical handbook dealing with the Water 
Garden from the standpiiint of the cultivator. Certain it is, from the ex- 
perience of the author in having to frecpiently reply to impuries as regards the 
proper care and attention to be given to Water Lilies and other aquatics, that 
there. is some desire for a volume such as the present. 

The production of the work in its present form would not have been 
possible but for the kind assistance rendered by many friends, and thanks are 
extended to all, but especially must acknowledgements of valualilc aid be 
made to the follnwing: Mr. S. C. Nash for the use of many illustrations from 
negatives made by himself; to Mr. J. X. Gerard, for the opportunity of adding 
a view of his water garden ; to the proprietors of American (hardening, and the 
H. A. Dreer Co., for the use <.if illustrations; to 'Slv. WiJlard N. Clute who 
contributed the chapter on Ferns; to the Editor of the Metal Worker for 
illustrations representing vScollay's heating plant f'lr the Tropical Water Lily 
Pond in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, N. Y. ; to Mr. J. M. Hodgson for the 
miniature views of his Newport Garden; to Mr. P. Bisset for photographs 
furnished; to Messrs. Lord iV- Burnham for illustration of A(piatic house; and 
to Prof. Byron D. Halsted for information on diseases. 

In the matter of illustration, the use of the photographic camera and the 
direct reproduction of its work, has been largely relied upon. The object in 
view has been to present, as faithfully as could be done, views taken direct 



VI 



PRi:i\ci:. 



t'i'cjin nature and dcm(instratin_<if different styles uf planting- suitable f(jr different 
situations and locations as they may be actually seen. ISy this means more 
than by any other it is felt that a true conception of the possibilities of the 
water garden can be obtained, and prominence has therefore been given to 
photograjjhic views in the fnllnwing pages. 

In conclusion I must acknowledge my indebtedness to Mr. Leonard Barron, 
Editor of American (Sardcning, for having jirepared for jiress the JNIS.S. of the 
entire book. 

If this effort adtl in any way to the better appreciation of the beauties of 
the \Vater Ciarden and its charming occupants; if it lead l.nit a few towards 
that great pleasure and satisfaction which has been mine after years of ex- 
periment and trial, the hdxir of production will not have been in vain. 

W. T. 



"It Is iH'iiluT wise, iitn- tt'iidiT, nor loving:, to ri'init to others, 
liowc\ <'r expert, the snprenif' en re of one'H K^i'di'H- Vou will tend 
.vf)tirH with ytiwv own Imnds, nnil discover its needs with yonr 
own lienrt : and if. in doiiiy:so. yon Iinve to witlidraw yourselves 
sonielinies, more tlinn aceonls with modern uont. int't rural 
seelusion. your soeial instinet^s will not thereby be starved, nor 
yonr share in the ^raees and i-hariljes of life t liereby lie en r tailed. 
Yon will lind nnieh resendilanee belwei-n tlowers and human 
beings, for they loi) grow reserved under eoldness or maltreat- 
ment, and responil with nlniosl feiniuiue ahierity to every 
synipathetie endeavor lo apprehend tliein." 

Alfrrtl Austin. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER PAGE 

I. — IntniJuctory ..... 3 

II.— Where to Grow Ai.|u,itics 8 

in.— Soil 20 

IV. — Treatment of Margins 24 

\'. — Planting; 33 

VI.- HyliriJi/.ing, Seed Saving, Wintering 41 

VII.— Seedling Plants and Pmpag.itinn 46 

VIII.- Nympha'as : Classes and Distnlnition 49 

IX.— The Victoria 53 

X.— The Aqn/itic House 65 

XL- Tlie Amateur's Water < iarden 73 

XII. — Insects, Rats, Dise.ises, and Enemies 77 

XIII. — Heating Plant for .1 Vi>;tnria or Tropical Water Lily Pnnd 83 

XIV- — Descriptive IJst of Water Lilies with Cultural Memnrand.i. 

I. Hardv Nvmpluras 86 

II. Tender Nympha-as, Day Blooming 90 

III. Tender Nympha'as, Night Blooming 92 

IV. Victuri.i .iiid Hury.ile 94 

V. Nelunibiums 95 

XV. — Miscellaneous A^juatic Plrnits. 

1. Tender 96 

II. Hardv 98 

III. Plants fur A(.|uari;i and Sh.allow Water loi 

XVI.— Orn.iniental Gr.isses— Bamboos— Orchids— Pitcher Plants 103 

X\TI.— Ferns Suitable for the .Aquatic <jarden 107 

XVIII.- Hardy Perennial PlantsSuitable fnr Margins of Ponds and Moist Grounds 112 

XI.\. — Hardy Trees and Shrubs for Wet and Moist Situations, M.irgins of Ponds, 

Lakes, etc 118 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 



PAHE 

Nelu III bill m siiocioKum , 1 

A natural piece oi water planteii with Water Lilies 3 

Pond of hardy Water lollies in Cnion Park, Chicago 11 

Pond of hardy Water Lilies, and rockery 15 

Section of wall 18 

Group of tropical Water Lilien and Victoria Randii 21 

Eulalia japonioa 26 

An Amateur's pond, (1x12 feet, sliowing masonry above ground level 27 

The Wiiter Lily ]K>nd in the gardens of Hon Gardiner G. Hubbard, West Washington, X). V 31 

Victoria Randii and Xyinphii'as grown in an artificial ])ond 35 

A natural piece of water , 3*.) 

I'lanting of a natural piece of water 43 

Victoria regia (Tricker's variety) showing partly opened flower 51 

^'ictoria regla (Ti-icker's variety) with fii[l> <ij>ened tlower, and I»ud showing 5.5 

Vigorous growth of I'aulownia inipcrialis 5i) 

An At I ua tic house (J7 

Leaf of Ouvirandra fenestralis 69 

Ouvirandra fenestralis 70 

An Aquatic garden and fishery combined 71 

Nymphiva Marliacea chronintella 74 

An Amateur's aquatic garden 75 

Anindo don ax ((Jiant RetMl) 70 

Leaf of hard\' Xyniplui-a affected with Cercospora 81 

Heating a Lily pond in Prospect Park, X. Y 84 

Stellate form of Xymphiea iJl 

Aponogeton distachyon 96 

Liuiiiocharis Humboldti 97 

MyrlophyliUin proserpinacoldes 98 

Iris Kivrnpferi 99 

Saglttaria 100 

Cabomba 101 

Stratiotes aloides 102 

Lulalia japonica zebrina 104 

Diona^a niuscipula (Venus' fly-trap) 105 

Sarracenia 105 

Adiantum peilatnm 108 

Funkia 113 

Mortensia virginica 115 

Spira-a palmata 116 

Trillium 117 

Clethra alnifidia 118 

Kaimia latifolia 119 

Magnolia glauca 120 



PLATES. 



L — Victoria regia (Tricker's variety) and Victoria regia Randii FroutLspiecf 

IL — Flower of Victoria regia Randii f;icj'nfr p-ifff >^ 

IIL — Xymphn-a gracilis " 24 

40 
48 
56 
64 
72 



1\'. — Xymijhci-a gigantea 

V. — Xympha^a sturtevantii 

VL — Egyptian Lotus , 

VII. — A charming nook 

VIII. — A magnificent Clump of Papyrus autiqnorum. 



IX.— Musa ensete " 88 




-NliLI M 



A view in the large /jond at the Water dardeiis. ('littoii. N. J. In cninjiany with the Lotus :ire 
Xymplneas. The waruin of tiie pond is furnislied witii Zizania aiiuatica {Wild Rice); the central object in tlie 
Ijacliground is a trunk of a dead tree covered witli tlie wild ,urai>e vine. 



The Water Garden 



CHAPTER I. 



INTKOUUCTORY. 

'ATM':K L1LII-:S, or pond LiUes, have existed tliront;h the 
a^es. 'J'lie native speeies, Nyni]jh;ea odorata, tlie white 
fragrant Pond Lilv, was introdneed into England in 
lySf). The I'^ngTish species, Xynipli:ea alba, also white, 
was recognized long before; these two s])ccies have 
become widelv known and the general inijiression has 
lieen that all Water Lilies were white, hence the 
expression of surprise when <ine sees a red, yellow, or 
blue Lily for the first time. 

Aipiatics are associated with the ancient ]Cgyi)tians 
in their literature. Mention is made of the Lotus or 
Water Pily, the name being applied both to Nelumbinnis 
and Nympha-as, and, in fact, to several other plants in 
different ]5arts of the Old AVorkl. Three distinct 
species are represented on many ICgx'ptian monuments and are known to 
botanists and gardeners of the present day as Nelumbinm speciosum, 
Nymph;ea I^otus, and X. cierulea. Nelumbiums were not only known to the 
Egyptians, but were common in the East and West Indies, China and Japan, 
Persia, and Asiatic Russia. The United States can also lay claim to one Lotu.s — 
Xelmnliium luteuni — the well known yellow American Lotus. 

Amongst the manv pjlants now grown fcjr the embellishment of our 
gardens, public parks, and cemeteries, are hardy herbaceous jjlants, bulbs, 
annuals, tender plants known as bedding plants, sub-troijical plants, and last, 




4 IXTRODVCTORY. 

but not least, aquatic plants. As Orchids are anionj^-st _L;Tecnh(>use plants, so 
arc acjuatics anmni^st j^ardcn fluwers, "The Elite." These are comparatively 
new and uf recent introduction, though they have been known to collectors 
and a few cultivators for a nximber of years ; but adaptability of them 
(including the most tender Nymplueas and \'ictoria regia) for general culture 
out-of-doors in summer is a realization of recent date. 

No class of plants is more widely distributed than Water Lilies, being indige- 
nous to the United States, Canada, Central and South America, East and West 
Indies, Japan, China, Siberia, England, Europe, Austria, Africa, and Australia, 
each ct)untry possessing its own or several species of marked distinction, size and 
color. No class of plants jiossesses such diversity of color, including red, 
white, N'ellow, and blue, and intermediate shades. The members are no less 
distinctive in ]ioint of fragrance, as nearly all are possessed of an aromatic, 
delicate, and jileasing odor. They are also very imlike the host of other 
favoiMle tlowers: some are day-blooming and close at night, others are night- 
blooming and close in the day. As a rule, the flowers ojjcn and clo.se for three 
days or nights in succession, generally the first day flower closes early, and 
on the third day after closing it sinks beneath the water and matures seed — 
if so be that it ])i'oduce seed at all I 

There is a great variation in the shape and size of Nympha-a flowers; 
.some are beautifully cup-shaped (see plate of Nymph;ea .Sturtevantii, facing 
page 48), others star-shaped with long flat petals, tajjering to a point, as 
Nympha'a gracilis (see plate facing page 24), some species have long stiff 
stems, 12 to iS inches above water, while others are flexible and the flowers 
float on the surface of the water. Xymph;eas have all leaves floating, but 
occasionally, when crowded, the leaves stand oat of the water. N. tuberosa, 
one of the strongest growers, soon crowds its own foliage out of the water, 
and often indeed the rhizomes likewise. 

The introduction of the X'ictoria regia into England gave a stimulus to 
a([uaticnlture, many tropical Nymphasas had reached England prior U) tlie 
introduction of the V'ictoria, also Nelumbiums; their cultivation, however, had 
never become general. The facts that they could not be grown out-of-doors, 
and that numerous (ither tropical plants occupied the space of the greenhouse 
and conservator}- to Ijctter advantage, were potent factors in this. 

About fifty years ago the X'ictoria was first introduced into England, 
and two years later was grown in a special house erected for it by Mr. Cope, 
of Philadelphia ; with it other tropical aquatics were introduced and this 




>; C y. c; "^ 



ixTkonrcTokv. 7 

marks the CDnimciiccnicnt of tlic cultivation of a(juatics in tlic l^nilc(.l Slates. 
I^ittle proL,Tess, however, was made; the indulnenee in tlie new cult involved 
eonsideralile lalior and ex]iensc, and only the few could enjoy such a floral 
luxiirv. In 1S53 Mr. lolin I-'isk Allen, of Salem, Mass., exhibited a leaf and 
flower of A'ictoria before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society ; <.ither 
acjuatics were also exliil)ited, and the cultivation of such increased somewhat, 
but it was not until it was found that the E>;yptian Lotus, Xelumbium specio- 
sum, was quite hardy that a([uatic gardening- commanded real attention. The 
introduction of that plant, as well as of several species of Xympha-a, into the 
public parks and gardens became general throughout the United States. x\t 
the present time exhibitions are not complete without a display of aquatic 
flowers, and they have ever proved to be a special feature and centre of attrac- 
tion wherever shown. The aquatic plants at the World's Fair and in the 
public parks at Chicago attracted considerable interest, and their cultivation 
has increased by rapid strides since that time. 




CHAPTER II. 

WHERE TO (jROW AQUATICS. 

THE CULTIVATION of aquatics in our public parks, and the annual 
exhibitions before horticultural societies and the »Society of American 
Florists, have been educators of the public. The cultivation has extended 
throug'hout our land, and now in man}' private gardens, of small or large 
proportions, aquatic gardening is to be seen. These ever-fascinating and 
attractive gems of nature have attracted the attention and admiration of 
multitudes, who, beholding them, desire to possess them. Yet many hesitate 
through fear of a possible failure, or their lack of the knowledge of culti- 
vating such chaste and apparently delicate exotics. But this is assumption, 
for no plants grown in a hothouse or flower garden, are of more easy 
cultivation. Our common bedding plants require much coddling during the 
greater part of the year; cuttings are taken in August and cared for through 
several stages until the following Maj- or Jime, when the plants are placed 
in their summer cpiarters, and the same course has to be again repeated each 
year ; com])ared with aquatics the tender bedding plants are very costly. 
Where a natur.d piece of water exists, and such is to be met with at 
almost every turn (ponds of stagnant water, sluggish streams, swamps, bogs, 
lakes), the possession of a water garden is simply a matter of planting, and 
when judiciously done the result is a perpetual delight, a growing interest, 
verily, a joy forever. See the tropical Lotus, its majestic foliage standing 
above the surface of the water, and its mammoth flower buds as they burst 
in all their oriental splendor; it is perfectly hardy, and when planted in a 
natural pond soon takes possession of the same to the exclusion of any other 
plant. All the European Nymph;tas, including the many new hybrids of deli- 
cate and exquisite shades of color, are perfectly hardy. These, and the many 
attractive hardy herbaceous plants, inchiding the ornamental Grasses, Reeds, 




PLATE II 

VICTORIA REGIA RANDIl. 
In order to see a flower of a Victoria at its best in all its different stages, it is necessary to watch it very closely, and as it is a night- 
blooming plant the advantage of having it where an electric light is handy, is at once apparent. The flower on first opening 
is indeed most beautiful and its strong aroma is then most perceptible, but a continual changing of form and color is ever tak- 
ing place. The above picture was photographed by flash-light and is a faithful represention of a flower as it appears during 
the second night. 



MAKIXC .1 I'dXn. 9 

Bamboos, Japan and other Iris, constitute one of the i^realest attractions of a 
landscape, and can be seen in all the leadini;- public parks, j;ardens, cemeteries, 
and private gardens ; then, to them, add the most strikinj,-- of all aquatics, the 
tropical Nympha-as, and other tropical terrestrial plants that can be grown 
during the smnmer under precisely the same conditions (they make rapid 
growth and flower profusely), and there is produced a mass of flcjwers of 
gorgeous colors that cannot be rivaled by any other class oi plants in this 
or any other country. 

< )n manv estates a natural pond or stream of water is to he found; if such 
be outside the limits of the garden proper, yet in such a location that it is in 
sight of a drivewa}' or footpath, a few clumps of the red or yellow Nymphicas 
or a mass of the Egyptian Lotus add a S])ecial charm to such a spot, and will 
make it inviting and attractive. 

Where a stream of water exists a dam may l)e built and a pond made at 
a moderate cost. It is not necessary that the pond be m<jre than from eighteen 
inches to three feet in depth; a natural soil inclining to heavy is preferable, 
avoiding gravelh' and sandy soils. I<^xceptionally finely colored flowers are 
grown in ponds with clay bi:)ttoms. 

MAKING A POND. 

Presuming a pond is to be made by damming a stream, the first thing to 
do is to clear the ground of any brush, dead stumps, coarse weeds and such like. 
Then mark out the pond with stakes driven into the ground about five or six 
paces apart, taking levels to ascertain the exact grade. This may be done with 
an ordinary spirit level and straight edge, if the space be only about a hundred 
feet long, but if it be much larger it is advisable to have a surveyor's instru- 
ment for the purpose. Having ascertained the exact grade, an estimate can 
be made of the soil to be removed in leveling for the bottom, and building the 
dam. This latter must be of size and strength in ]3roportion to the size of the 
IKjud, to resist the jjressure and weight of the water it will have to hold in. 

A dam may be built entirely of masonry if desired, and if material for that 
purpose be on the ground it can be used to advantage. An overflow must be 
provided, and provision made, either by paving with stones or planks, to prevent 
the bank from being washed away. An outlet is not an absolute necessity, 
and would seldom, if ever, lie wanted in a shallow pond; but when it is con- 
sidered desirable to have such, a simple outlet may be provided Ijy using large 
drain or soil pipes before the dam is erected. The size of the pipe must be 



lo .U.1/v7.\y; .1 I'OSD. 

according to tlie volume of water runniiii;- into the pond ; it must lie of sutfieient 
capacity to carry off the water at the same rate as it enters. Perhaps its 
greatest use would be during work of construction. The flanged end of the 
pipe should be on the pond side of the dam, and tliis can be plugged with a 
disc of wood made to fit the pipe, and finished off with a facing of puddled 
clay. 

Should the stream supplying the pond be liable to become a dangerous 
freshet after heavy rains, provision should be made (by a culvert or open ditch) 
to divert the current of water and prevent its rushing through the pond; other- 
wise much damage might be done to the plants, as well as to the pond and dam. 
In such a case an inlet should be made with a gate that can be readily closed if 
need be. 

In most cases it will be unnecessary to add anything to the natural bottom, 
l)ut it would be best to plough, dig, or break the surface, so that the soil may 
be in proper condition for planting when the season arrives. 

Swampy and boggy ground may be converted into a beautiful natural or 
wild garden, and many uncared for places are to be found that are practically 
worthless for any other purpose. Such a piece of ground may be outside the 
limits of the formal flower garden, but is an ideal spot for a water and bog 
garden. Here, also, many hardy perennials, native and exotic, will flourish 
lu.xuriantly; also choice flowering shrubs, trees, and ferns will thrive as in no 
other i)art of the garden. The site for the pond will naturally be the lowest 
part of the ground, where drains from the surrounding portions can 
empty. Having selected the site, mark out the dimensions, take levels, etc., as 
before directed, taking advantage of the natural surroundings to add to the 
general etTect. If much water exist to interfere with operations, construct an 
outlet to drain off the water, taking care to place it where it may be perma- 
nently left open or closed as the case demands. 

If springs exist, or the pond is subject to overflow by heavy rains, provi- 
-sion should be made to carry off the water without letting it rush through the 
pond. Spring water running into the pond will not seriously affect the culture 
of Water Lilies, if the pond be not shaded and the volume of water not so large 
as to materially lower the temperature of the pond. 

The soil will have to be dug out to the required depth, which may be 
from eighteen inches to two or three feet, the depth must be considered 
in comparison with the normal thickness of ice formed in the locality, for 
the roots of Water Lilies must not freeze, although they are designated 




■^ if ^ ^ 



'I. • 






PVDDLINO. 13 

"hardy." The soil thus dug out may be used for grading in the vicinity of 
the pond. Provide an overflow so as to allow any algae or confervaceous 
growth to run off. If the soil at the bottom of the pond be stiff marl, it should 
be broken up and some good loamy soil added for planting the Lilies in. 

Local conditions are very dissimilar; in many gardens there is a natural 
declivity and a run of water; some soils are sandy and gravelly, while others 
are tenaceous. Near sandy stretches of land there are often to be found 
deposits of pure clay — potter's clay. A supply of water, natural or artificial, is, 
of course, necessary. Then, whatever natural facilities there are should be 
taken into account and developed, which may mean a considerable saving in 
the cost of construction. Having a supply of water and clay at command, the 
greatest obstacles to the formation of a water garden are overcome. Having 
selected the site, and determined on the size of the pond, its depth, etc., outline 
the pond with grade sticks, and see that these are perfectly level. If the site 
selected will allow an addition of si.x inches of soil, this will allow much in 
digging, and in the disposal of the soil dug out. The sides of the pond must 
be sloping outward, at an angle of 45" or more. 

PUDDLING. 

Having dug the space for the pond, the next thing is to make it hold water. 
Clay will eft'ectually do this, but it needs preparation before being used, and it 
must be pure and free from stones, and such like matters. Provide a large 
shallow box similar to that used by masons and bricklayers for the mixing vi 
mortar; take a suitable quantity of clay, and chop with a spade if lumpy and 
hard, using water sparingly to soften it; then with a wooden maul beat or 
pound it until of proper consistency — very similar to clay, or brick earth, in the 
making of bricks. With this clay, cover the sides of the pond to a thickness 
of three to four inches, beating it as firmly as possible with a wooden hammer 
or mallet; also cover the bottom evenly and beat or tread as the work proceeds, 
mitil the whole is entirely covered and made compact. If the plants are to be 
grown in tubs or boxes, cover the bottom with about two inches of bar or beach 
sand; this will prevent the water from getting thick and muddy, when it is 
necessary to get in among the plants. If the pond be of moderate size, so that 
a plank will reach across from bank to bank, and there is consequently no 
necessity for anyone to get into the pond, soil may be placed in the bottom 
and the plants planted in it; but in either case, use the best soil available 
(see Soil, page 20). When covering the bottom with sand or filling in .soil, as 



14 FOrXTAIX BASJXS. 

directed later, it is important to avoid making holes or indentions in the 
bottom or other part of the clay lining: so whatever operation is in progress, 
use planks or boards upon which to walk or wheel. 

A sod border makes the best finish to the edge of the pond, and will allow 
a close inspection of the occupants, but numerous (Irasses, Selaginellas, Lysim- 
achias, Glechomas, Rushes, Vincas, etc., should find a home on the edge of the 
pond, or at least on a portion of it. 

The foregoing method of treatment is not practical in all cases, but other 
means to attain similar effects may be resorted to, such as fountain basins, 
tanks or artificial ponds. In making such, the general idea should be to 
imitate nature, and, where jjracticable, all such work and materials should 
be carefully concealed (see plate facing page 64). It often happens that the 
most desirable spot in which to grow water plants is such that an orna- 
mental stone wall, or the coping of such would be in harmony with the sur- 
roundings, (travel walks leading near the pond, and kept in good condition, 
are a great accommodation, affording people means of making an early inspec- 
tion of the gems, when otherwise, if obliged to walk over the lawn yet wet with 
dew, they would be debarred. 

Large fountain basins of this description are to be seen in city parks, both 
small and large, also in cemeteries, as well as on private estates; these are 
available for growing most kinds of aquatic plants. Other tanks or basins 
specially constructed for the purpose, as well as tubs made out of hogsheads 
and kerosene barrels, are very serviceable and well adapted for the growing 
of aquatics on a smaller scale. A foxmtain is sometimes an ornamental and 
desirable structure in the garden, but it must harmonize with the surroundings 
and be in proportion to the dimensions of the garden, or the section thereof 
allotted to it. The basin of a fountain, if not very small, will prove a fitting 
place for aquatics, Init it must not be crowded with plants, and a continual 
stream of water must not be permitted, as that would tend to lower the 
temperature of the water. Such strong growing plants as Nelumbiums, and 
tall growing plants, such as Papyrus, must be omitted, except in large 
fountain basins, and even when present, care must be taken not to allow a 
heavy stream or spray of water to fall on such plants, for it would beat them 
down and give a ragged appearance to the whole. 

Tanks or artificial ponds may be constructed in almost any desired spot 
where a supply of water can be commanded. Such a pond may be in proximity 
to a dwelling house. There is no need to fear its being a nuisance, as a source 



ARTIFICIAL POXDS. 17 

of malaria, or as a breeding plaee for mosquitoes. If near lo the dwelliny- 
house, whenee such a pond may constantly be viewed from the window or 
piazza, it, together with acjuatics and other suitable plants, may form a part of 
the flower garden with beautiful and charming effect. A pond of irregular 
outline is to be preferred, and if on the lawn, the masonry should be entirely 
hidden or surroimded by ornamental subtropical plants. On the north and 
northwest sides, should be planted clumps of Bamboos, Ornamental (irasses 
and Reeds, with subtropical plants for summer adornment. Back of these 
plants, some shrubs and trees for wind-breaks should be planted, if such be 
not already on the ground. On the same side of, and in the pond, which should 
be opposite to and farthest from the dwelling, should be clumps of Lotus; 
these should be planted in divisions of the pond, walled in so as to keep them 
from rambling through the whole pond. The size of such a pond must be 
according to location, and should bear .some proportion to the size of the entire 
flower garden. One from sixty to one hundred feet long and twelve to fifteen 
feet wide, will be large enough to accommodate a fair collection of these plants 
and make an attractive feature; but it may be made larger or smaller, according 
to individual requirements. 

The best method of getting to work is to draw apian to a scale, having 
previously taken the dimensit>ns of the ground, and considered the levels, the 
source of water supply, overfl(jw and outlet. Having determined what to do, 
(including the disposal of the s(jil to be excavated, which will aggregate from 
seventy-five to one hundred and fifty cubic yards for a pond of the size men- 
tioned), mark out the pond, using stout set-sticks, about one foot long, nicely 
pointed; these may be firmly stuck in the ground, about three feet apart, 
closer on a curve, so that an exact outline of the pond mav be apparent and 
corrections made if neces.sary. When the outline is considered satisfactory, 
drive the sticks firmly into the ground until but three or four inches remain 
above the surface; then proceed with the excavati(.>n. If the soil have to be 
hauled away, horses and carts will be necessary, but if it can be used in the 
vicinity, then the work can be accomplished with the aid of wheelbarrows. 

If the ground is loamy, and of a stiff consistency, dig the sides perpendicu- 
larly, and excavate to the depth of two feet six inches; this will allow about 
two feet depth of water when completed, which, for general purposes, is 
sufficient; the walls .should be eight inches thick, built of brick, and laid in 
cement; the joints must be all well filled in. The wall may be tapered 
near the top, and finished with one four-inch brick set flat or on edge. 



i8 



WALLlXn. 



The top course of brick should be two or three inches below the ground level, 
so that the green sod will cover all trace of masonry. After the walls are 
built, finish off with a facing of Portland cement. The bottom may be made of 
concrete or broken bricks well grouted in, and afterwards finished off with a 

layer of Portland cement. The division walls 
for Nelumbiums may be made of four-inch 
work, if the sections are not large ; otherwise 
build them eight inches thick. These need not 
be bmlt to the surface, as they are intended 
onh' to confine the roots. 

An overflow pipe is essential, and an outlet 
is very handy, but if Water Lilies and Nelum- 
biums are to be planted out, the water will be 
kept in the pond all winter ; there will, how- 
ever, be times when transplanting, renewal of 
soil, etc., will necessitate the water being- 
drawn off, and then the usefulness of an outlet 
w^ill be apparent. A drain must be provided t(j 
carrv oft" the water, and one or more outlets 
made, according to the size of the pond. A 
two-inch pipe, or three-inch jjipc, of malleable 
iron, built into the solid masonry at the bottom, 
can be made to answer for outlet and overflow. 
An L fitting, attached to this i)ipe, sliould be 
level with the bottom, and to this may be joined 
an upright piece of pipe that will reach the 
surface ; this may be in two pieces, one of 
eighteen inches, another of six inches. If, 
after planting, it is desirable to have but six 
inches of water in the pond, remove the top 
section of pipe, which can be replaced when 
the pond is wanted full. 

A most useful tank is one built of either 
brick work or concrete, twelve feet long, five feet six inches wide, and from 
eighteen to twenty inches deep. This will aft'ord room for six or eight tubs 
in summer, and will prove one of the best tanks for wintering stock : using a 
frame and sashes, and in severe weather a shutter or covering of salt hay or 




KK»'IM)N nK WAl.I., 



l'h'AMi:S. 



19 



litter, and bankiny leaves, and litter or yreen manure around the frames. Two 
or more permanent frames may fie <>£ great service, and can he used as an 
auxiliarv for bringing forward [ilants for setting in the ornamental pond, and 
also for wintering the hardy species ; they can also be used for growing the 
tender Nymphsas during both summer and winter, provided they are 
furnished with means for heating. The frame and sashes can be removed as 
soon as warm equable weather sets in. A shallow tank, twelve to fifteen inches 
in depth, would he found very serviceable for growing plants in pots. 




CHAPTER III. 

SOIL. 

N( )T A FEW wlio have attempted, or contemplate, growin-' aquatics over- 
look the great need — absolute necessity — of a very rich soil, and plenty 
of it, to have these plants grow successfully. The fact is, this is of more 
importance than water, for, saving a few floating species, plants cannot grow 
ill water only, and not infrequently during the dnnith of summer is the native 
Pond Lily, Nympha-a odorata, to be seen high and dry, the water having 
receded; and when gi'own in tubs, and often in natural and artificial ponds, 
when over-crowded, the leaves will stand out above the water. While most 
aquatics will flourish in a .soft, muddy soil (as is to be found in most ponds from 
an accumulation of humus, decayed vegetable matter, and dead leaves), it is 
not advisable to select such soil for the artificial cultivation of the plants. 

The best .selection would be good turfy loam, from sods cut from a pasture 
and laid in a pile, adding one-third to one-half well rotted cow manure, stable, 
or farmyard manure, where a liberal admixture of cow manure is assured, or 
old hotl)cd manure, whichever is available. The fall is the best time to stack 
soil, and it should be kept dry. If no shed be convenient, cover the pile with 
boards, or some arrangement for throwing off water. Where ponds are to be 
planted in spring, and as late as May, a pile may be made a few weeks before 
needed. After it has lain three or four weeks, the whole should be turned, chop- 
ping it down so as to cat the fibre mass and thoroughly incorporate the manure. 

In filling tubs or boxes for planting, u.se all the rough pieces of sods, 
throwing away nothing but stones, or such hard substances as will not rot. 
Where good barnyard manure is obtainable, it is unnecessary to use artificial 
manure, such as bone dust or horn shavings, btit where there is a deficiency, 
such may be used with advantage — say one six-inch pot full to a barrow load 
of soil. Another good fertilizer is sheep manure. This is much stronger 



SOIL. 2T, 

than other inanures — cuw or farmyard — and should be used in proportion of 
one to nine. These manures should not be added to the si.iil until it is to be 
used for pottint,^ or planting'. This soil is suitable f(jr all aipiatics grown in 
jiots, tubs, or boxes, or planted out in artificial ponds. 

The (juantity of soil necessary for a plant depends very much on the 
species and the surface water space allowed for the plant. If the pond be of 
only moderate size, and it is desirable to grow as man\- kinds as possible, use 
tubs, or half barrels or boxes, containing five or six cubic feet of soil i'ov such 
as Nympluea zanzibarensis, X. devoniensis, N. dentata, or other strong grow- 
ing species; for moderate growers, such as N. pygnKca and its hybrids, half 
the ([uantity allowed for the stronger one will suffice. 

When Nelunibiums are grown in boxes or tulis, allow double the (piantity 
of soil as for the f(.)rmer, since these plants are voracio\is feeders, and often 
when their culture has proved a failure and a disa])pointment it was really a 
case of starvation. Feed these plants liberally and they will respond by a 
generous display of their (jueenly flowers. 

Where a large fountain basin, tank, or jjond affords ample space for free 
development, and where flowers of the first size and quality are desired, use 
shallow boxes, ten to twelve inches deej), and three to four feet square, 
placed on the bottom. It will be necessary to j^lace these in position before 
being filled with soil, and the water must necessarilv be drawn off. 




CHAPTER IV. 

TREATMENT OF MARCJINS. 

THE MARGIN of the pond is every bit as important as the pond itself, 
and must receive the same care and consideration in the planting. As 
the frame is to a picture so is the margin or border to the pond — it may make or 
mar. The first consideration must be the occupants of the pond ; to arrange 
all in such a manner that the surroundings add to, not detract from, the main 
feature, at the same time to form another distinct feature should be the object. 

As no two ponds are precisely the same, the general features must be con- 
sidered. As before mentioned trees and shrubbery are essential as wind-breaks, 
and where these are already in existence, they should he taken into considera- 
tion when laying out the water garden; they not only are necessary as wind- 
breaks, but are an important and indispensable part of the landscape, and a 
source' of pleasure and comfort as shade factors, under which seats may be 
placed for the languid, whence a pleasant inspection of the occupants of the 
pond may be made witliout the observer being subjected to the scorching rays 
of a midsummer sun. Where such trees are not available a rustic summer 
house covered with climbing vines will afford a welcome resort. 

Where a few tubs comprise the water garden they should be sunk in the 
ground to the level of the tops, not close together, but leaving a space of from 
twelve to eighteen inches between; the intervening space being planted with 
Lysimachia nummularia, which makes a delightful carpet of light, glossy 
green. If Nelumbiums be included in the collection of atjuatics, these may be 
placed in the centre of the grou]5 or, on the northwest side, or to the rear, the 
group being backed with Ornamental Grasses, with sub-tropical plants such as 
Musa ensete, Ricinus, Cannas, and others. 

A pond (made of masonry) ia the lawn will be surrounded with the green- 
sward, and, as elsewhere recommended, the top of the wall should be so sunk as 




PLATK lU. 

NYMPH.«A GRACILIS. 



This, a native of Mexico, is the only known white day-flowering tender Water Lily. The flowers are borne on stout stems, 10-12 
inches above the surface of the water; sepals greenish white; stamens rich golden yellow; Jeliciously fragrant, 
resembling the Lily-of-the-\'alley. It will doubtless be the parent of other valuable additions to our list of Water Lilies, 
and we have already a grand blue form. 



AkTfFfCIAL PONDS. 25 

tu be covered bv the si.id. If such a pond or tank be of irrci;ular rmllinc and 
from fifty to sixty feet in'len.y-th, ample space will be aff(jrded for the effective 
planting- of large clumps of Arundos, Bamboos, Erianthus, Musas, etc., in the 
rear, and at the same time allow sufficient space for one to walk between them 
and the (KMid, so as to inspect the occupants of the latter. If clumps of Lotus 
be jjlanted in sections of the pond at the rear, little space will be left for any 
other plants in the pond save a tub or two of Papyrus antiquorum and Cyperus 
alternifolius (Umbrella Grass). Next to the grasses, shrubs with evergreen 
and deciduous trees should be planted if such be not already there to give pro- 
tection against hi.gli winds. In case <if a tank, such as is pictured on jiage 27, 
where the brickwork is seen above ground, a frame and sashes can be used for 
earl}- and late protection, but on the other hand, little can be done in the way 
of planting on the margins, yet a few plants, such as Acorus calamus, A. c, 
variegatus. Iris Kicmpfcri, I. pseudo-acorus, Papyrus antiquorum. Cyperus 
alternifolius, Limnocharis Plumicri, Scirpus, and Sagittarias, can be grown in 
pots and placed on pot stands or inverted pots, so as to bring the roots of the 
plants near the surface of the water. If the rear of the pond be flanked by 
trees as shown in the picture, the Iris, Scirpus, and Cyperus, together with Iris 
K;cmpferi may be planted in the ground near the pond where they can enjoy 
a liberal supply of water at all times. 

Fountain basins with ornamental copings are sometimes surrounded by a 
gravel walk which affords a good opportunity of inspection of the flowers in 
the fountain, but the stone coping and the gravel walks do not harmonize with 
the water and aquatic plants, and sh(.)uld be relieved by a border of ,green- 
sward; this, however, should be omitted where, as in some jniblic places, it is 
necessary to have a sign imploring people to "keep otf the grass!" 

A border of plants with glaring colors is most objectionable and detracts 
from the central or main feature of the fountain basin and its contents, but a 
border of Grasses, Rushes, and Iris, together with Zizania aquatica, Typha lati- 
folia, and T. minima may be planted in boxes and distributed irregularly around 
the margin inside the basin, bringing the boxes near the surface of the water, 
allowing a depth of from three to six inches above the soil. Between the taller 
plants clumps of Water Poppy (Limnocharis Huniboklti), Eichornia a/urea, 
Eichornia crassipes major (Water Hyacinth), and Pistia stratiotes (Water 
Lettuce) may be introduced; the last two are floatin.g plants and should be kept 
in place by hoops or wire netting supported by stakes and brought near the 
surface (yet out of sight), so as to keep the plants in place. 



26 ROCKBRY EFFECT. 

A beautiful effect is produced where the hmdscape affords a natural bluff 
or bank as shown in the illustration on page 21 ; from such a point of vantage 
a good view is had, overlooking the pond and its occupants. 

Where rocks are available an entirely dift'erent and desirable feature niav 




EULALIA JAPONICA. 

This most graceful grass is seen liere to perfection. Planted close on the margin of the land 

its graceful habit has full scope. An isolated position is the best tor it. 



be added to the water garden. They should be arranged in such a manner as 
to produce a natural and pleasing efifect (see illus. page 15); too often the 
rockery represents nothing more than a pile of stones laid up in a conventional 
manner as if the main object had been to get rid of an incumbrance and to 




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NATIRAL POXDS. 29 

occup_v as little space as possible. Bold rocks should be used wherever 
possible and especially where the pond is of large dimensions. Ferns, Bam- 
boos, shrubs and trees planted on the face of such and in the background 
are very effective; and if it be possible, a stream of water, natural or artificial, 
should take its course over the rocks into the pond below. Nothing, indeed, 
could be more picturesque than such a scheme properly carried out. 

A pond of irregular outline, either on the lawn or surrounded by a gravel 
walk or drive, may afford ample space for numerous plants in clumps or groups, 
close to the margin and yet at the same time leave opening of sufficient space 
to allow different views of the pond and its occupants. 

The Victoria pond shown on page 35 is an artificial one, where native 
plants figure largely on the margin, very charmingly and effectually obliter- 
ating any signs of masonry or traces of the fact that the whole is artificial. Iris 
Kiempferi, Eulalia in variety, and Musas were planted, and native plants grow- 
ing wild in that section were allowed to grow and lu.Kuriate in their own natural 
bent and inclination. As nothing could be planted directly in the pond, the 
Nelumbiums, Thalia, and Cyperus shown are grown in tubs, the rich green 
foliage — relieved occasionally by the Lotus flowers — standing two to four feet 
above the surface of the water, breaking the line and giving depth. Shallow 
pockets are made on the inside margin of the pond to h(jld .soil for such plants 
as Limnanthemum indicum, Limnocharis Humboldti, Myos(jtis, Eichornia 
azurea, Callas, Lobelias, Scirpus, .Sagittarias — all of which delight in shallow 
water. Where these are not damaged by overhanging lu.xuriant growth of 
the plants on the outer margin of the pond, they form a most pleasing and 
artistic method of planting the edge of artificial areas. 

The dealing with the margin of a natural piece of water is not so difficult 
as the manipulation of the edge of an artificial, cemented, or walled pond. As 
a rule, the water near the edge, or at least a part of it, will be shallow, and 
many plants delighting in just such conditions as are thus afforded may be 
planted with telling effect. Whatever may be the piece of water that is to be 
planted, the margin should receive first consideration: the water line should 
present an irregular outline, no straight, parallel, or regular lines should be 
permitted; shallow pools and bays should be constructed where necessary, if 
such do not exist naturally, for such plants as flourish in shallow water. 
Clumps of shrubbery, subtropical perennial plants, with large shade trees, 
fonning a secluded and quiet retreat as is so well represented in the illustration 
on page 31, must be borne in mind. Under such trees, and through shrubbery, 



30 .S7/.l/,/,0U' MARGIXS. 

circuit(.iiis walks shuuld lead to the margin of the iiond at different points 
wlience views of some clmiee variety or groups of plants are prominently 
brought intii line. Along such walks and under the shade of the trees should be 
seen groups of native and other hardy flowers, Ferns, Orchids, etc., and if a 
spring and stream exist meandering toward the pond, the margin of the same 
should be clothed with such plants as Ferns (See Fern Chapter), Forget-me- 
not, Cardinal flowers, Impatiens (Touch-me-not), Caltha palustris, Sarracenias 
and other Pitcher plants. 

Clumps of Cat-tails should be planted near the edge and inward. Ponte- 
deria cordata delights in shallow water as do all Scirpus, Acorus Calamus, 
Ja])an Iris, Sagittaria, ]tissi:ua, etc.; these should be planted in large patches 
in shalUnv water, which may vary from two to five feet from the edge of the 
pond; also Papyrus antiquorum (see plate facing page 72), the latter is not 
hardy, and requires protection in a warm greenhouse during winter; here too, 
is a fitting place for Zizania ac[uatica, one of the most picturesque of hardy 
native aquatic plants, but it is an annual and will spread along the whole 
margin if not pulled out early in spring where it is not wanted, for otherwise 
it will smother other plants. Another very desirable plant, and one of the 
grandest of our native llower plants, is Hibiscus moscheutos; this is a strong 
and vigorous grower and retiuires room — eight to ten feet for a single specimen. 
( )rontium atpiaticum and Peltandra virginica should find a place on the margin 
in shallow water. On the water edge, on slightly rising ground, bold clumps 
of Ornamental (rrasses and Bamboos should be planted not too close, and for 
bold foliage effect, Musa en.sete, Paulownia, Caladium esculentum, Fatsia, 
Aralia, Maranta, and other plants (their name is legion), not included in this 
list, will suggest themselves. They will, with these, prove most appropriate 
and will appear as in their native haunts if planted in the water garden. 

Since no two ponils are iirecisely the same, no absolute guide can be given ; 
individual taste and pulgment must be exercised in the selection of the plants 
for each individual case. Overcrowding must be avoided; it is almost im- 
possible to have each and every appropriate plant represented on the margin 
of a single pond. 




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CHAPTER V. 

PLANTING. 

TH]'> SEAvS( )X fcir plantiiiL;' will vary accordint;- ti> Incality and scL-linn, l)ut 
it may he considered perfectly safe to plant all hardy Nyniphieas 
and other aquatics (except Nelumbiums) as soon as vegetation is assured. 
Where the native species grow wild, just as soon as the jxmds are clear ol 
ice the N'ounL;' leaves of the plants are to he seen, thus denionstratin;.; that they 
start early into growth ; when such is perceptihle it is time to plant or 
trans])lant. The natural order for plantini;' aj^pears to he: First, hardy 
NymphiL-as; secondly, Nelumbiums; thirdly, tropical or tender Nymphaas, 
and lastly, Victoria Re^ia, if not in an artificially heated ]>ond. 

The practice of plantini;' out is not commendahle unless in a moderately- 
sized pond, where a plank will I'each over from side to side, avcjidinj^' the 
necessity of tramping- through the plants to clean off any dead leaves, or to cut 
a flower, and thereby making the pond and plants muddy and dirty, besides 
tiding much injiny to the plants by breaking unseen roots and rhizomes. In 
larger pieces of water and in artificial ponds (whether ])ud(llcd with clay or 
built of masoni-y) it is better to ha\-e boxes or tubs for the plants to 
grow in. These, if large, shoidd be placed in position before being filled 
with soil ; small boxes or tubs mav be filled and planted l)ef'ore being put 
into the pond. After the filled but unplanted tubs are in ])osition and 
covered with sand, the pond should he parti v filled with water to say, 4 or 6 
inches above the tops of the boxes or tubs. At no time allow the jilants 
to lie exposed to the drying action of the sun or air, as they will then 
very soon wilt and be seriously damaged, indeed, in many cases such 
drying, while waiting for the pond to fill up would be fatal. The work of 
])lanting in the suljmerged tubs can easily be accomplished b\- a man with 
rul)her boots on. 



34 PLANTING XHIJ -Mill CMS. 

When it is deemed best to jjlant out the Lilies in the pond itself, put from 
twelve to fifteen inehes of soil over the bottom, or on that seetion of the pond 
which is to be planted. Make the soil moderately firm in either instance, and 
in all cases cover the surface with an inch or two of sand, this to prevent the 
manure from rising; or mixing with the water, thus giving it the appearance of 
li<piid manure, which would be most objectionable. 

The Xutivc W.-ncr Lilv. Xvmph;ca od(.)rata, and its varieties, have a 
rhizomateous creeping root stock sending out numerous side shoots; a .good, 
healthy root with a plump leading shoot is sufficient to make a good, strong 
plant, and produce a good crop of flowers the first season. When planting, all 
that is necessary is to press the roots into the soft soil, leaving them some- 
what obliquely with the crown just under the soil. The European species and 
its hybrids grow more compactly, making large clumps and specimen plants; 
others, i)articularly Nympha'a pygniita, produce no sideshoots or offsets, having 
but the single crown, and arc but moderate growers. 

New plants may be set out after growth is apparent at any time during 
the season, and as late as August; or plants from pots, and which have several 
leaves may be used, but to produce flowers the same season, plant early. 
Pot plants with a ball of soil and roots are in the best condition for planting. 
In jilauting. remove a small proportion of the prepared soil (sufficient to make 
a hole to hold the plant), afterward, make all secure, and level off similarly to 
planting in a tlower-bed. It is immaterial whether or not the water be 
deeper than that in which the plants have been growing previously; the plant 
will adjust itself to the new quarters, and in an incredibly short space of time 
the leaves will be floating on the surface of the water, even if submerged two 
feet at the time of planting. 

Xchimhhnns are impatient of removal, and should not be disturbed in 
their winter (juarters. or transplanted until there is warm, settled weather, 
new growth perceptible, and the conditions of the pond such as to insure active 
growth at once. vSuch conditions exist about the middle or end of April, and 
during May, according to the section of country. Nelumbiums should not be 
planted in a small pond where Nymphaeas are growing, unless a division wall 
confine them to a given space, or they will soon raml)lc over the whole pond, 
and the dense foliage will then smother the Nympha;as out of existence. The 
tubers of Nelumbiums vary in size from a few inches to three feet in length, 
but the latter is exceptional; they are very brittle, and care should be taken in 
handling and planting that the roots are not bruised or damaged. A good 




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tuber should possess an unbroken leadinj;- shoot, and a small lateral one at the 
base; an extra size root more often consists of two sections, thus having a 
leading shoot and two smaller ones. 

In planting', [ilace the tuber hori/.cintally in the soil, about three inches 
under the surface, and cover the whole root; if necessary, place a brick or 
some other heav\- article upon it, to keep it fr<jni rising and tloating on the 
surface. Small tubers mav be started in jiots, or in wooden pails, and thus 
treated, are preferable for planting in Northern sections where the season is 
late. Nelumbiums grown in tubs should have more soil than is allowed for 
Nymph;eas, and a larger tub, say a half-hogshead, so as to give all possible 
soil (plant food) during the gmwing season. The tubs may be filled to within 
two inches of the top, giving a rich top-dressing, also giving the plants frequent 
waterings with liquid manure. This, of course, applies only to tubs that are not 
submerged in a pond. 

Tropwnl or Tender Xviii/ilncns should not be planted out until settled 
warm weather is assured ; this will be sometime fnim the middle of May to 
the first week of June. A good rule may be to plant them out when it is 
considered safe to plant out tender bedding plants such as Coleus and Alter- 
nanthera. As our summers are none too early or too kmg for these plants to 
fully devel<_)p, it is advisable tn have these plants well advanced before being 
planted out, and if plants have to be procured from a distance, and only a few 
are required, it is better to secure them three or four weeks before the time of 
planting out in permanent quarters, repotting them into a size larger pot, or 
according to size and condition nf the plants, using soil as before recommended. 
Place these in tubs of water, and give them every chance to grow. If a few 
hotbed sash are at command, the tubs may be placed or plunged in a frame, 
and covered with the sash. If this protection cannot be afforded, some warm 
sheltered spot may be found, and the plants protected from cold winds and 
nights, this will accelerate active growth, and ensure earlier Ijlooming, thus 
prol<_)nging the season by several weeks. 

It is sometimes desirable to retard the blooming of hardy Nympha.-as, so as 
to bring them into flower somewhat later than, or at the same as, the tender 
ones. This may be done where these are gnjwn in tubs or boxes, or planted 
out: draw off the water, thus exposing the crowns of the plants, which must be 
kept out of the water, but must not be dried up by the action of the sun and 
air; cover with sphagnum and keep moist (branches or bracken may also be 
laid over them to shade from sun and keep from dr3'ing). The ro(jts may alsn 



38 



PLAXTfXC, XVMPH. HAS. 



be "heeled in" in a coUl frame, or a sliady Ixirder, before yrowth com- 
mences, and well watered to settle the soil around the roots; these, kept shaded, 
may be held some time, at least until it is time to plant the tender aquatics. 

After the plants arc in their summer quarters little remains to be done; 
the overflow havint;' been fixed so that the water level will be about six inches 
below full water mark. After the plants have made a good start and are 
growing; vigorously, the water should be raised to the full height, and any scum 
that may collect on the surface should be cleared off by the use of the garden 
hose, spraying towards the flow; attention nnist l)e given that the pond be kept 
full to running over, as there will be more or less evaporation taking place, 
conditional on the weather and quantity of surface clear; after the surface is 
covered with foliage, evaporation will be less. As the season advances, im- 
sightly and dead leaves should be removed; conferva' may accumulate, but 
the amount of care and attention necessary will be comparatively small. 





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rL.\TE IV. 

NYMPH/EA GIGANTEA 



The illustration represents an individual flower reduced one-third. It is entirely distinct from any other species of Nymphsa. The 
color is purple in bud, changing on opening to a soft satiny blue, shading to white, the yellow stamens are slender and incurv- 
ing. The plant requires a temperature of from 80- to 90^ to start either seed or tubers and ample root room prior to planting 
in permanent quarters, avoiding atall times a sudden fluctuation in temperature ordisturbing of the roots. Native of Australia. 



CHAPTER VI. 

HYBRIDIZING, SEED SAVING, WINTERING. 

HVIiRIDIZING or cross-fertilization of Water Lily flowers and the raising 
of such progeny is always a source of n'reat jjleasiirc, and all who grow 
Water Lilies may jjartake of this diversion. The larye list of Nymplueas now 
under cultivation embraces numerous varieties, surpassiny original species, 
due to the exercise (_)f this art. Few good things are traceable to "luck" or 
"chance" in either the animal or vegetable kingdom; to achieve anything 
worthy of special merit, requires a practical knowledge of the different 
species or varieties. 

With a special object in view, pick out the varieties for the separate parent 
plants; liaving selected these among Nymplucas, what is to be the .seed bearing 
plant must be closelv watched, and the flower stripped of its stamens the 
lirst day of opening, and a piece of fine gau/,e tied over the flower to exclude 
any insect that might alight on it and thus deposit any foreign pollen. On the 
second day, gather the pollen from the selected pollen-bearing plant, using for 
the purpose a soft camel's hair pencil, and deposit the same on the stigmas of 
the .selected flower. This operation must be performed without wetting either 
fl(jwer, and must necessarilv be done on a fine day. The flower must be 
re-covered with the gauze immediately after the operation, and remain covered 
until the flower dies off. vShould there be a scarcity of pollen on the selected 
plant or flower, repeat the operation on the next day. When the fertilized 
flower dies oft" and shows unmistakable signs of having been imjjregnated, 
secure seed pod in a muslin bag, wait until it ripens, and in due course of time 
gather the seed and wash it, then either dry and store it away until it is time 
to s(nv, or sow at once, as the necessities of the case may determine. 

SEED SAVING. 
Nymph;ea species and S(jme crosses produce seed very freely. Some 
species are only propagated by seed, but several varieties do not produce seed 



42 SEi:n SAVi.xc. 

at all. ^'(lun^■ plants that show a tendency to produce seed, should have the 
dead flowers taken off, to allow the plant to attain vigor and maturity before 
ripening seed. The native Nymphsea odorata, N. tuberosa, and most of their 
forms produce seed freely. A very large percentage of what is produced is 
devoured by fish, turtles, etc., and it is difficult to save or harvest seed, except 
in small jjonds, where it is not diflicult to get at the seed pods or cajisules ; 
they should lie tied in muslin hags and be collected at intervals. As soon as the 
seed is ripe, the jiods burst and the seed rises to the surface, but if tied up in a bag, 
is prevented from rising and spreading over the surface, and is easily collected. 

Where this is not practicable, a careful lookout for the seed must be made 
about a month after the flower fades, quantities of seed can be skimmed off the 
surface of the water as soon as the capsule bursts, but after a da}- or two, the 
seed all disappear; it either sinks to the bottom or floats to the edges of the 
])ond, or is washed away. 

The tender Nymph;eas, such as N. zanzibarensis and its forms, and N. 
dentata, also produce seed freeh'. Select strong plants, and allow only two or 
three pods to mature on each plant: the seed of these species is much finer or 
smaller than those of the hardy ones, and if not secured in bags, it is impossible 
to collect it off the surface of the water. 

As the bags are collected, allow them to remain in water two or three 
days before washing, and do not expose to full sun, as the extreme heat of 
August will cause the seed to sprout and render it worthless for keep- 
ing. Provide a fine and a coarse sieve; the mesh of the coarse one should be 
aliout the size of that of ordinary mosquito netting, this will allow the seed of 
the tender species (with the exception of X. gigantea) to pass through, thus 
separating the seed from the dead parts of the flower and capsule. A fine 
wire sieve or a gravy strainer, the size of a large cup, is an excellent article to 
use for collecting the seed. It is necessary to use plenty of water in washing 
and cleaning the seed, the seed of the hardy Nymphasas being larger and 
heavier, readily sinks in water, and is easy to clean. 

As each lot is washed, it should be laid on thick paper with the name 
written on it, and then be securely stored away in an airy place to dry, airy, 
vet secure from wind and mice; after it is dry, the seed may be stored away in 
paper packets, (wax or parchment paper preferable), or put into tin boxes and 
kept in a dry cool place until wanted for sowing. 

Some seed is best sown at once, and if seedlings can be carried overwinter, 
they will make strong plants early in the season. It is perhaps best to sow all 







iM'itinttius 
Kavt-niiM-. 



Kiilalla. Mnsa t'tist'te. !'ap\-fns am i<i'ioriiin. [".iilalia. 

ri.AN'i'iM; cii' A \ \'i( i;\i, rri.ri; ii|- w ai'i;i,-. 



.1 n;itur:il imiiil ill ii:irl . sliKWiii;^ i:;j:ypti:in l.nHis ;iiiil \V:itiT l.ilirs in I hr I'lirc^niiiiKl. willi 
rluiiiiis of (irn.iiiii'iil.il d'/v/.v.ve.v, siirli ;is Kri.iiii Ims. i:ul;ili:i. I'.-i/n riis. :niil Miis.is nii I lir iii.ir^iii. 
n itii Sour Cum. M.ijilc. :ui<l Clirstiint tvrrs in I lir li.irliuninnd. Tlir l rr.itjin-iit <if l he ni:iif;iii 
litTi' nhowil is snit;ililf t'<ir hir^r jtmiils nitli nniiili- spare for forrst trt'rs ami /inrli-lilir l.iiiil 
si-ajie. Thf /lirliirr has tin- false niipe:! inner of the plants lirinu' rrowdril : this is owiui; to 
reiliirtion. :niil to tlir f:irt thiit only ;i small purl of the pond is \isilih\ Tlir plants arr: 
Erianlhiis Havrnna-: ICnIalia jaitonira \arirfiata : Miisa rnsrir. lari^r sprrinirn : I'apynis 
aniiiiuiiruni : l-.'iilalia Japonira y.ehrina. 



C.lA7v'57.\v; OVF.R: WLXTERING. 45 

hardy kinds us soon as rijie, but this is not absolutc-ly necessary, l)ut the best 
results have been obtained in this way in some cases, particularly with Nym- 
phica pygmaea and N. gii;antea; sonre of the same seed carried over to sprin>;- 
failed to germinate. 

CARRYINfJ OVER: WINTERING. 
Nym])h;cas of the stellata type, such as N. e<Kndea, N. zanzibarensis, etc., 
dift'er frnni other tmpical kinds in that they do not send out side shouts, but are 
mostly confined to one central crown, such plants are diHicult to keep over 
winter, as they will not make tubers, but will invariably rot if any attempt be 
made to dry them off. Should it be desirable to save or retain a special plant 
of this type for another season or otherwise, the plant should be lifted and 
reduced in size (both leaves and roots), and planted in a tub or larj;e pot, 
placed in a tub or tank of water and kept thus ^(rowing on. The water need 
not be above a temperature of 65", and durinj; cold weather the plant will not 
suffer in a temperature of 60°, but in the former temperature the plant will 
keep yrowin^' and produce some flowers all through winter. 

The tubers of all tender Nymph;eas may be ke])t in moist sand, or sandy 
soil at a temperature between 50" and 60''; do not keep loo dry, and at all times 
look out for mice, as they will assuredly find out the tubers. All hardy 
Nymphicas and Nelumbiums i^rown in tubs must necessarily lie protected from 
frost; this method of culture is not natural, hence the necessity of protection. 
Our native Water Lilies in natural ponds have above them sufficient depth of 
water to protect the roots so that they do not freeze. The tubs can be wintered 
in a cellar, or pluno-ed in the s^round and covered with leaves, bracken, or 
any material that will prevent them from freczinij. Where such tubs of 
Nymphteas are submerged in a tank, it is best to leave them in position pro- 
vided the tank is frost proof, but it is best to protect the masonry, and the 
whole tank where subjected to severe winter freezing. This may be effected by 
covering with old lumber, leaves, branches, salt hay, etc., and where sncjw is 
generally in plenty, any material that will collect antl hold tlie snow should be 
used, as there is no better protective material than snow. 



CHAPTER Vll. 

SEE1JUN(; PLANTS ANlJ PROPA(JATION. 

F1\()M tlie first of February onward, seeds of Nyin])li;eas and oilier aqiKities 
may be sown; loeation, retpiirements, and convenience for liandlin^;' nuist 
be considered independently. In s^cod seasons March is more favorable for 
([uick and healthy _<4ro\vtli, aiul the resulting seedlin.i;s are not so apt to i^et a 
cheek or become stimted in their growth. The seetl may be sown just as other 
flower seeds, in pots or pans, using soil neither light nor heavy. Soil fnjni a 
pile of sods and manure composted the previous fall will be in ]irimc con- 
diliou; if the soil be inclined to heavy add sufticienl sand to make it iiorous. 
If this so}\ be not available use the best that can be procured, such as that in 
which it is known that other (lowers will grow, but do not use fresh manure in 
the soil, as it will ferment in the water. Sow the seed on a smootli surface 
and cover lightly with tine sandy soil, after sowing stand the pots in water 
foi' a few hours until thoroughi\- soaked, afterwards submerge in water covering 
the jiots two to three inches; keep the water at a temperature of 75° to 
80". The seedlings of the stellata type will germinate in about ten or fifteen 
days, looking somewhat like spears of grass, the first leaf will be visible a few 
days later. The seed of Nym])h:ea dcntata and of other night blooming Water 
Lilies rc()uires several da\'s longer before germinating, and the hardy species 
Ljiiger still. Xo definite time can be stated, we have had seed germinate six 
months after being sown. 

After the seedlings have made two or three leaves they should be trans- 
planted into other pots or seed pans, similar to other seedlings, using soil as in 
the first instance. This ojicration ma\- at first be somewhat tedious, but the 
simplest method of handling these seedlings is to keep them in the water; use 
a fiat i^ointed stick, or better still, a piece of bamboo cane, and having filled 
the pots with soil covered lightly with sand, place them in the water along- 



DIVISION. 47 

side the seed pot; select a plant, take hold of it with one hand, between finj^er 
and thumb, and with the stick in the other hand, loosen anil raise the ])lant. 
Now it will appear to be the most erratic of all plants, on beini; raised the 
roots are inclined to clinLT to something, and most particularly to the leaves, and 
to t;et tan}:(led tajrether and seemingly impossible to separate and straighten 
out. When such is the case allow the plant to float, straightening out the 
roots by means of the stick and then with a gentle pressure near the tips of the 
roots move the plant to the desired spot and press it gently into the new soil. 
That is all that is necessary, and in this manner the work can In- iicrfornieil 
e.xpeditiouslv and in good stvle. i\fter the seedlin;..;s have made sonic gcKid 
growth they should be jiotted singly into small pots (j'-j or _^ inch), and when 
well established in these, repotted into 4-inch pots and from these into summer 
cpiarters, or as the case demands. Do not allow the seedlings to remain long 
in the seed JJots, lint kecj) the young jilants growing steadily, and if they 
a])pear to be in a stand-still condition, wash off all loose soil and repot in fresh 
material. 

Hardy species that do not produce seed may be propagated by division of 
the roots or rhi/.onies, which work is best accomplished in spring, and when 
new growth is assured. Tropical species of the dentata and rubra t\pes i)i"o- 
ducc side shoots, which form tubers toward the close of the season. After the 
leaves are cut off by frost, the main root, with side shoots attached, should be 
dug np, the roots trimmed, and any dead stalks cut off. These stools ma\- be 
planted luidcr the lienches in a greenhouse in sandy soil, giving them a good 
watering U> settle the soil about the roots; after a few days it mav be ncct-ssar\- 
to repeat the same operation. Aftei" this the plants mav be allowed to become 
dr^^ but not so dry S(j as to shrivel. In this condition tlicv will remain sound 
and good for a long period. 

The most simple and easy method of holding stock jilants is to keep one 
or two of a kind in 4 or 5-iuch ])ots during the summer; thcv will proh.-ihh- 
exhaust the plant food in these small pots before the season is over, and may 
give but little blocim, but show a tendency to go to rest early, the leaves take 
on autumn hues and tubers are formed. At the pro])er time these plants 
should be taken out of the water, and the pots, with their contents, |)lacc(l 
under the bench in the greenhouse or other suitable or convenient jilacc. 
If left too long in the water and the weather is hot, the tubers will start into 
growth, and if taken out too soon the tubers may not be sufficiently ripe to 
keej) until they are wanted to start in the folknving spring. In spring; the 



48 



SEEDLING PLANTS. 



tubers may be potted in fresh soil and placed in water at a temperature of 75° 
to 80", when they will start into active growth and send out numerous shoots 
making separate and independent growths. Select the strongest when they 
have three or four leaves, and pot into 4-inch pots; these will make better 
plants individually, and produce larger and better flowers than a number of 
smaller plants. As soon as established in these pots they should be planted in 
permanent summer quarters, or repotted into 6-inch jjots if it be too early to 
plant out. Others may be allowed to finish their growth in 4-inch pots and 
mature tubers for another year; all Nymphasas that produce tubers may be 
treated as above recommended. 

Victoria and Euryale plants are annuals, producing no tubers, and propa- 
gation is effected only by seed ; sow in February and March, according to the 
date when it is considered safe for planting out, allowing between three and 
four months from date of sowing seed to time for planting. — (See further 
directions in Chapter IX). 





NYMPH^A STURTEVANTIl. 
ReproJuced fnjni a pliotugraph and greatly reduced. This massive incurved flower with large broad shell-hUe petals is entirely 
distinct from all other tropical night-blooming NymphcTas in size, form, color, and general characteristics. The color is a bright 
rosy red, brilliant in the early morning sun and dazzling by artificial light. Like all tropical Nympha-as, the plant delights in a 
high temperature, full sunshine, and pure air ; where it can enjoy the same cultural conditions as Victoria regia it produces its 
magnificent flowers not in the least sparingly. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

NYMPH/EAS: CLASSES AND DISTRIBUTION. 

Wri(_) IS NOT familiar with our native Pond Lily, Nymphtua odorata, and 
its pink fcjrni, N. o. rosea? These are admired by all lovers of Howers; 
yes, and by those who are not! The lovely pure white flowers floating on the 
placid water in the early morn, attract the attention of the laborer and artisan 
as thev pass bv to their daily tasks and catch a breath of air laden with the 
sweet spicy fragrance of these charming flowers. Who can help but admire 
and love such flowers? In the western states Nyniphaja reniformis {svn. 
tuberosa), is indigenous; yet another in the southern states, also the yellow 
species, flava. Thus we have three distinct species in three colors; white, 
yellow, and pink, natives of the United States and the progenitors of numerous 
hybrids and varieties that in many instances are superior to the original types. 
Other countries, too, have their own species of Nympha^a. England has its 
white Water Lily, N. alba; Sweden its pink variety of that, N. alba var. rosea; 
Bohemia has also its white, X. Candida ; China and Japan their N. pygm;ea. 
These are all hardy and will grow under the same conditions as our native 
species. 

Another hardy aquatic must not be overlooked here, it is the American 
Lotus — Nelumbium luteum. This grand Lotus is indigenous to several sec- 
tions of the United States, also the West Indies; it is nevertheless little known 
generally. It thrives under the same conditions as the hardy Nympha;as ; its flow- 
ers are of a rich sulphur yellow color, and is almost identical with the Egyptian 
Lotus, sacred bean of India, Nelumbium speciosum, excepting in the color of 
the flower; the latter is indigenous to the East and West Indies, Persia and 
Asiatic Russia, China, and Japan, where it is also held sacred. Notwithstand- 
ing that Nelumbiums are indigenous to the above named tropical countries, they 
can all be grown and treated as hardy aquatics in the United States, although 



JO XYMI'II.EAS C/.ASSHS .\.\l> DISTRird'TK >S. 

lliey cannot be thus yrown in I'ai;^lanil, wIiltc such severe winters are not 
experienced, but on the other hand that country lacks the heat of C'ur summers, 
so the i)hint is not able to i)ert"ect or mature its t^rowth. Nelunibiunis, like 
hardy NymphiEas, embrace the white, jiink, deep rose, and yellow colors, and 
are amon^' the choicest of hardy aquatics. 

The tropical or tender Xymph;eas end)race all the deeper shades of rose 
and crimson, p.ale blue and ])urplc, also white and yellow. These are ag'ain 
divi(.led into two classes; day and niu'lit bloomin<r. These sjiecies and varieties 
are widelv distrdnited and are iudii>"cn6us to the tropics, as are the hardy 
varieties to the temperate /.ones. Nympli;ra zanzibarensis and its forms azurca 
and rosea arc, as the name implies, indigenous to Zanzibar, in Africa: 
X. ccei-ulca comes from ICj^ypl; N. yigantea is a native of Australia; N.' versi- 
color, India; N. gracilis, Mexico; these are day Howering forms. 

In the night flowering class are: N. ampla, (Jamaica); N. lotus, (Hungary); 
X. dentata, (.Sierra Leone) : X. rubra, (]':ast Indies). This la.st is apparently the 
on]\- red species, but be this as it may, we have many garden hybrids of many 
shades of pink, carmine, antl crimson, which make up a large and complete list of 
night flowering forms. 1 )etailcd descriptions of these are given in chapter XIV. 
These not only aff(uxl ditferent and distinct colons, but the individual flowers 
are as varied in shape and size as they are in color ; some flowers arc cup shaped, 
others open horizontally: some have wide pet;ds, others n.arrow and sharp 
]K)inted; some flowers float on the surface of the water, others are erect and 
stand out above the surface of the water several inches on stout stalks. 

As to fragrance: some resemble \'iolcts, others Tea Roses, Lily of the Valley, 
etc., in their odor, but the fragrance of X. odorata, our native species, may be 
truly styled the fragrance of the Water Lil\-, it is pceuliai'ly its own. 



■^1 r(o 



CHAPTER IX. 

THH VICTORIA. 

THE VICTORIA regia is now well knuwn tliriiiiL;hfnit tlie civiliy.cd wmid, 
altlimigli its introduction into ICnj^land and the United States dates back 
to a ]K'riod less tlian fifty years a<;d. It is i^rown most successfully in the open 
ail", and is a very L;reat attraction whenever seen, it is the grandest and n^ost 
wonderful of all a<|uatic plants. It is a native of South America, where it in- 
habits the trancpiil bays of the great streams. The earliest traveller wIkj tlis- 
covered it was Ibenke, in i.Soi. Dr. Lindley tells us that " I'.onipland 
subseqtiently met with it, but .M. D'Orbigny was the first to semi home 
S]5ecimens to Paris in iSjS; they were, however, neglected or overlooked. In 
a work ])ublishcd some few years after this time, M. !)'< )rbi,gny mentions hav- 
ing discovered the plant in the river Parana in (jiiiana. It was known, he sa_\s, 
to the natives by the name of Irupe, in allusion to the shape of the leaves, 
which resemble tliat of the broad dishes used in the coimtry. The Sjianiards 
call the plant water-maize, as they collect the seeds and eat them roasted." 

It was a great day, horticulttirallv speaking, when on the first day of 
January, 1837. Sir R. Schomburgh came iqjon this noble plant in I'.ritish 
(iuiana. A German traveller had found it in some trilnitaries of the Amazfiu 
in 1S32, but it was when vSir R. Schomburgh, in a letter to the Royal 
(ieographical Society cjf I'^ngland, dcscrilied the largest specimen he had met 
with, that public attention was drawn to this ma.gniticent plant. Sir R. 
Schomburgh rightly described it as a vegetable wonder. It was while pro- 
ceeding up the river Berbice that he came upon it. " It had gigantic leaves 
live to si.x feet across, with a flat broad rim, lighter green above and vi\-id 
crimson underneath, floating upon the water, and in character with such 
wonderfid foliage I saw luxuriant flowers, each consisting of numerous 
petals passing in alternate tints, fr(jm pure white to rose and pink. The 



54 THE VICTORIA. 

smooth water was covered with the blossoms, and which possess tlie additional 
charm of extensively diffnsinjj;' a sweet frajjrance." Its introduction to gardens 
is probably owing- to Mr. Bridges, who, in his journey through Bolivia, found 
the Victoria regia in considerable abundance, and he brought home in 1846 
seeds in wet clay, well-dried foliage, and flowers in spirits. 

The first flower was ])roduccd in England in November of i<S49, and 
was ]iresented to Her .Majesty, Oueen Victoria, in wIkjsc honor the plant 
was named. Its gigantic leaves are five to six feet in diameter, turned up 
at the edges five to seven inches additional. The upper surface is of a deep 
brilliant green, the underside a vivid crimson, and furnished with strong veins 
which are cellular, filled with air, and form a regular and elegant network. 
The underside of the leaf, as well as the foot stalks of the leaves and flowers, 
are covered with very prominent and elastic spines. The peculiar formation 
of the under surface of the leaf imparts to it great biuiyancy, rendering the 
mature leaf capable of bearing a considerable weight, not infrequently 150 
to 200 pounds, and a plant grown at Tower ("irove Park, St. Louis, in 1896, 
had a leaf that bore the unprecedented weight of 250 pounds. The ilhis- 
tration on page 51 represents a \'ictoria as grown at Clifton, N. J., which 
had at one time twenty perfect leaves in different stages of development, 
and which produced a large number of its magnificent flowers from July to 
October. These flowers are not less marvelous than the leaves ; when 
expanded a bloom measures from fifteen to eighteen inches in diameter, the 
petals are very numerous, the color, when the bud first opens, is white, passing 
by successive shades, the second day, into a rosy hue, a lively red to crimson. 
The flowers exhale a pleasant odor, not unlike that of a rich pineapple, during 
the first evening on opening ; this is distinctly perceptible as soon as the sepals 
show signs of bursting, and hours before the flower is open. The bloom lasts 
but two days, or more correctly speaking, two nights, during the hot weather, 
but occasionally at the end of the season the flowers endure three days. 

For man}- years there was but on^ type of Victoria in cultivation, but in 
1886 a plant was grown at Bordentown, N. J., by Mr. Sturtevant, which pro- 
duced a deep crimson flower, and also possessed darker foliage than the 
original; the turned-up rim of the leaf was also deeper. It was altogether a 
distinct variety, and is now known as ^'. r. , var. Randii. This variety has 
proved a most useful and very desirable one for open air cultivation in the 
United States, and is generally grown in preference to the type. 

Later it became a diflScult matter to obtain seed of the true V. regia, and 




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.1 .\7;ir u.\rihi:r vicmuiA. 57 

beinn' desinms of securing it I determined to try a new Held for supply, and 
durinL; the winter, iS93-'94, received fmrn a Euro]iean li<nise some seed pur- 
porting to he (if the true Vieturia re.^ia. Some of this was sown about the 
loth of March under pi'ccisely the same conditions as other Victoria seed, 
and in water at a temperature of 85'^ to 90° Fahrenheit, After waiting- a month 
and seeing no signs of germination, I gave up hopes of securing a plant for 
that season; but at the same time I examined another (xirtion of the same lot 
of seed which had not been subjected to a higher temperature than that of the 
house, and was greatly surprised to find several had germinated. The seed- 
lings were p(jtted off singly, and treated as other young X'ictoria jjlants; 
subjected t(.i a temperature of 85'', and re-piotted at intervals until jilanted in 
permanent quarters on May 20. 

From the first these seedlings exhibited a feature which marked them as 
entirelv distinct from the original form, the leaves being light green and 
mottled with reddish brown on the face, pui'plish below. The rapid 
growth and the early cu]>i3ing of the leaf were also very noticeable. In its 
permanent quarters the growth of the plant was still moi-e remarked, and it 
was soon evident it woidd outrun the older plants of the other variety, which 
in fact it did, at a very early date. The first flower was produced about July 
15. and during August the same plant pro(luced twelve magnificent flowers; 
these on first (opening were pure white, and on the second day of a lively rose 
color. At one time as many as nine flowers and buds were visible in difTerent 
stages of development, wdiile var. Randii produced but half that number, and 
seldom had more than five presentable leaves at one time. The illustration 
on page 55 represents the first plant of the variety as grown at Clifton, N. J., 
where it made such a record and proved to be so entirely distinct from any- 
thing before seen in the United States. 

The same characteristics of the plant have been manifest during the jiast 
two seasons, and it has exhibited a tendency to flower at a very early stage. 
Last year a few plants that were not wanted were allowed to remain in eight- 
inch pots, where they produced flower buds and one perfect flower, and would 
have continued to flower had they not been removed. Last season one plant 
of this variety produced some pods of seed, one of which bursted earlier than 
was expected, and not having been bagged the seed was scattered. So far 
as was possible the seeds were picked up, but a number escaped notice and 
sank. Early in July, 1.S97. a number of seedling Victoria jilants made their 
appearance on the surface of the water (which is about two feet deep). 



58 THE VICTORIA. 

Durinj;- the winter but little water remained in the pond, and at one time 
what was there must have been frozen nearly solid; in sprinj,'- the water 
was drawn off, the bottom, consisting of pure stiff clay, was pounded firm, and 
a layer of sand put upon it; the young plants referred to above are firmly 
rooted in the clay bottom and have every appearance of being strong and 
vigorous. 

The partiality for a comparatively low temperature is a remarkable feature 
of this variety (which we distinguish provisionally as "'Tricker's variety.") 
In no case has seed germinated when subjected to a temperature of 85° to 95°; 
it enjoys a temperature similar to that which is usually afforded tender Nym- 
pha'as, and there can be no doubt whatever l.)Ut that it will become a universal 
favorite, as it can be grown successfully under precisely the same conditions 
as the tender Nympha:as. 

Another variety of Victoria Regia is recognized in England as Dixon's 
and is characterized by the deep coloring of its flowers. 

Thus far we have records of at least three distinct forms beyond the type, 
but so far their exact standing has not been determined. Provisionally classed 
as varieties of vSchomburgh's original plant, it may be that at least one of 
them is worthy of specific distinction, but that can onl}' be determined on 
a fuller and longer acquaintance. 

Victoria regia is of easy culture; coming from a tropical country, it requires 
a summer temperature all the season, to grow it successfully. In its native 
habitat, it is a perennial, but with us, the best method is to treat it as an annual 
It forms no tuber, nor rhizome, as do Nymphaeas. It produces seed freely, and 
if the season be sufliciently long, or if artificial heat be supplied, the seed will 
ripen, but it takes from two to three months to ripen the seed. After it is ripe, 
it should be kept in water continuously, and in a temperature not below 60°. 

The seed should be sown during February and March, according to the 
section of the country, or facilities for growing the plants. The water temjicra- 
ture for starting the seed should be 85° to 90°; the seed sown in pots, or seed 
pans and placed in shallow water, will develop the seedlings in about twenty 
days, although occasionally, some will make an appearance in ten days. These 
should be potted off singly into thumb pots as soon as the second leaf appears; 
the water temperature for potted plants need not exceed 85°; the young plants 
should be repotted at intervals, keeping them steadily growing until they are 
planted out in their summer quarters. Sufficient room must be given at all 
times, so that the leaves are not crowded so as to overlap each other. 




VI(!(II{(irs laillWTH (IF rAII.CIWMA I.\l]'i;itI.M.IS. 

Tfif pirtiiri' repri^sfnts tlw strniiii- iiniwth of h youn^i iihiiit. or //«mi- a-rowth 
from a yoiinu- /ilant tluit Iiax Im'ti cut hai-k : in this sta^e it foriiin a niont iilraxiiia- 
ami striliiitfi olijcct in tlu- haclifirotinil or siirrdiindin^ns of tiif Watrr Cardrii. its 
lar^p tri-iolivii tlowny Iraves liaving a lii'autifiil, tropical appi'sranei'. 'I'lif u;ro\vtli 
may hi' out hack cacli year. 



CILTIVATION. 6 1 

The \'ictiiria i-c(|iiirc.s a depth of eighteen inches to two feet of water above 
the crown of the plant, and to i;row it in a pond with Nyinphieas, a |)it nuist be 
made for it; this ninst be one foot below the bottom of the pond, and shonkl 
be large enough to hold about one hundred and fifty cubic feet of soil, such as 
recommended for growing Nympha?as. 

In a pond of sufficient size, large enough to grow a Victoria and Nym- 
plueas together, it is necessary for an attendant ti;) walk between the plants, and 
the depth of water must, therefore, not greatly exceed two feet; this, with boxes 
one foot deep for the Nymph;eas, will give about one foot of water above the 
crowns of those plants, but a foot of water is not sufficient for the Victoria, 
twenty to twentv-four inches is necessary; this additional depth of water is 
obtained bv sinking the pit to hold the soil one foot below the bottom level of 
the pond. This pit should be 12x12 feet wide and 2 feet deep inside measure- 
ment. The walls may be built of 4-inch brickwork, with an S-inch bnttress 
in the center of each wall; the bricks shonld i)e laid in cement, and the walls — 
which should be one foot above the level of the bottom of the pond — should be 
faced with Portland cement on both sides; the bottom may be laid in concrete 
or puddled with good clay; it must be water-tight throu,ghout. As this is 
intended for early planting— .say first week in May — the pond, and especially 
the pits, must be heated and a temporary cover provided, the latter may be 
made of ordinary lumber, similar to a hotbed, made in sections and fastened 
together with hooks — the width of the pit requires two 6-foot sashes to cover 
it. The frame may be made one continuous pitch, the .sashes overlapping each 
other, but a better way is to make a frame, the sashes pitching in opposite 
directions making an equal span roof. This will be found easy to handle for 
ventilation and inspection of plants. 

Where two or more Victorias are to be grown in one jjond, it will be better 
to grow them on in pits covered with frame and sash as above described, 
and these heated separately until about the first of June, or until the plants 
become too crowded and need more space. At this date the tender Nymphicas 
should be planted; these should be strong plants that will give immediate 
effect. The Victoria plants must receive first consideration, and additional 
firing may be necessarv during cool spells to maintain the desired temperature. 
This temperature will also be highly beneficial for the Nymphsas. 

The system of heating the water must be decided upon before the pits are 
built. If in conjunctiim with a healing plant already on the ground it may be 
practical and economical to utilize the same, whether steam or hot water, but 



62 THE VICTORIA I'OXD. 

it very oftun liajiiK-ns that this cannot be done, and an independent system has 
t(.) be adopted. The best for tlie piir]:)ose is hot water. The site for the boiler 
house must be near-by, practically out of sit;ht, hidden by rockery or shrubbery, 
as nothing would be more objectionable than an unsightly chimnev or Ijuilding 
in the landscape. 

vSteam may be used for heating, but it is not to be recommended unless 
used for other purposes, l-^xhaust steam from an engine or pump must not be 
emptied into the pond, as the oil contained in the same would be very 
objectionable. The best method is to use live steam direct from the boiler; 
one one inch pipe is ample for each pit. This should enter at the top of the pit 
at one end, and cross diagonally on the bottom, rising at the opposite end, and 
terminating just below the top of the brickwork witli a pit-cock. A valve will 
be necess try to regulate the supply, also to blow out tlie exhaust which may 
empty into tlu' pit. Cover the ])ipe with drain tiles or insert in a soil pipe or 
cover with boards, the object being to keej) the soil clear of the pipe, and allow the 
heated water to rise. Cover the exposed main pipe with asbestos, felt, or non- 
conducting material. This system of heating has worked very satisfactorily. 

In the case of hot water heating, flow and return jiipcs are necessary, and 
two-inch pipes ]jrefcrable. 

The pits arc to lie heated separately and inde])endently of the jMind pro])er, 
until the Nympha-as are planted out about the first of June, earlier in Southern 
States. A i-inch pipe may circuit the pit, but if a 2-inch pipe is placed 
the same as advisetl for steam heating it will be found very beneficial. In this 
case the return pipe must ncccssaril)- be under the bottom of the pond proper; 
great care must be exercised that the wall where the ])ipe is carried through 
is perfectly water- tight as serious trouble will result from a leaky tank. 

Towards the middle or latter part of June the plants will have attained 
considerable proportions; the frame will be full of leaves, and every means 
should be used to "harden off" the plant previous to full exposure, which it is not 
prudent to allow liefore the latter part of June. Care must be exerci.sed in 
this performance, and the weather must be settled warm; a chill and a check 
to grtjwth at this time would annul all the care and attention previously 
bestowed, and the plants would probably be ruined. With the water at a 
temperature of 80°, or even 75° during a cold spell, the Victoria will pull 
through, and the tropical Nymplneas will doubly repay for the care and atten- 
tion bestowed on them ; the Nymphivas, indeed, will attain such perfection 
that they will surpass anything seen under ordinary conditions. 



PLANTING OUT. 63 

In the nciylibdi-hcuKl n( I'liikideljihia and New York, \'ictoria plants may 
be ])kinted out from the first to the middle of May; but fi'om this date until warm 
settled weather arrives, the plants will need protection and artificial heat, for 
a water tem]Derature of Ho" U> .S3" must be maintained. 

It must not be inferred that the Victoria cannot be thrown at all witlnuit 
artificial heat. There are instances of plants doinj^' well and even producing- 
flowers, though they are exceptional; but there are exceptional localities. As 
a general rule, the seasijn is too short, as it is not safe to plant witliDut artifi- 
cial heat nntil the end of Jtinc, and the summer will be declining by the time 
the plant has attained fair prop(>rtii>ns; and there is then the possibility of a 
cold spell, and the plant may not make any decent showing. Hut if gr^wn with 
artificial heat, a plant will have attained good proportinns, in tact, e(iual to the 
whole season's growth of a plant without artificial heat, by the time it is safe 
to plant out. 

Victoria plants are very succulent, and wiiludt liear the cdnfinenient in a 
packing case in the same manner that a Palm will, yet they will trawl hmg 
distances, and withstand a journey nf two or three days without suffering, but 
only the strongest jjlants should be subjected to a long joiirne_\% small i)lants 
would succumb, but can be safely shii3i)ed <in a two days' journey. 

When plants are received from a distance, and have been subjected to a 
comparatively low temperature during the journey, they should nut be at once 
submerged in water at the temperature before recommendetl for growing 
Victorias, but proceed as follows: On opening the case, place a thermometer 
inside the packing for a few seconds, to ascertain the existing temperature, 
then unpack and place the plant in water but a few degrees higher, also shade 
the plant dtiring the day, gradually increasing the temperature as the plant 
recovers its normal condition. The plant should be shippetl in the put in 
which it has gnnvn, and should remain nndisturbed until it shows signs 
of growth, which it shcjuld do in two or three days; after this the plant may be 
repotted or planted in permanent quarters. 

When a plant has been shipped but a short distance, it may at once be 
placed in permanent fjuarters, or submerged as received, and planted out a 
little later; the condition of the plant and the surroundings must direct the 
operation. After planting', keep both water and atmosphere at a tempei'ature 
of 80° to 85°, giving air on all occasions when the wcathei" permits. Keep a 
thermometer on hand, in the water is preferable, so as to know what the 
temperature is at sight. 



64 



THE VICTORIA. 



wen to have a ho.e aUacl.,,.™, « :„/„, .IT"';"'"' ■""" '" "■'» " '» 

eaiise. Toivard the end ,if 1„„. .. , termental,,,,, or other 

beriven..„dthep,,„,e" ^„' '7t' ' ™"""°" """ "■'""'«"' 
are h„a„y taten ;; h h " " "'"" """' ■'" ''"'"' "■' ^'^ 

^■'.eeh the.t„„-,h ::;r;l:;"V"'; '"",^'™'™'' ""'" ""' ^-'■ 

he prochtced and i, ,he we" the : ' '" '' ■' "" ""' "'"" *"'"<' 

- p-t „d, h,oo;re:::t:, rT; :; '"e:::'";:; "-■ -««<"■>■■ 

every third or fourth dav and ' • n throu-.nj. up a flower 

I'juiLii ua\, and occasiona v n vpim- „..,.. 
second day. - ^'-^ ^^'^™ ""eather every 

ripen, ,o„et.,„es ,„n,et, ™.,oh 'de pe, ' h^^^.tV" "" """ '° 

conditions of the weather. " ^"^ existincr temperature and 




CHAPTER X. 

THE AQUATIC HOUSE. 

AQUATICS of all kinds, even the most tender, including;- the \'ictoria regia, 
^ can be grown in the open air during' the summer, but it is necessary to 
have strong plants, more especially of the tender ones, when ihe season arrives 
for planting out. The advantage of having suitable quarters in which to 
propagate and grow the plants, is therefore at once apparent. 

An equal span roof house, twenty to twenty-five feet wide is best adapted 
for the purpose of an aquatic house, as it gives all light possible. In place of 
the usual table have in the center of the house a tank, built of masonry, con- 
crete or brickwork, the latter preferred. The length of the tank or house 
must be determined upon in each individual case, but whatever it is, the tank 
should have a division wall across the center, thus making two tanks, as, with a 
large collection, it is always best to have one tank that can be heated ten or 
more degrees above the other, and in winter one tank can be used for stock, the 
other for flowering plants, or if not wanted for Water Lilies, the tank can have 
a temporary covering and be used for any purpose. Build an eight-inch brick 
wall, eighteen to twenty-two inches high, the last two courses tapering, and 
finishing off with a four-inch single course. The wahs being above the ground 
level, will require to be laid in cement and faced on both sides with Portland 
cement, troweled off. The bottom must receive a good flooring of concrete, or 
a layer of bricks grouted with cement, and afterward a coating of Portland 
cement. Such a tank will be ftiund very accommodating, both for small and 
large plants. 

A temporary bench can be easily arranged with a few inverted fl(jwer pots 
and slates; this is most convenient if placed near the tank wall and the space 
in the center utilized for large plants in pots or boxes. 

Provision should be made for heating the tank; one two-inch pipe through 
the center will be sufficient, as the greenhouse will be heated, and should be 



66 THE AQUATIC HOUSE. 

piped tu maintain a minimum temperature of 70°. Steam or hot water, wliich 
ever is most convenient, will answer. If steam be used, insert a small steam 
pipe — one-iialf or three-quarter inch — inside the two-inch pipe, which should 
be perfectly water-tight, thus forming a hot-air space the entire length of the 
tank and equalizing the temperature. If hot water be used, one two-inch pipe 
is sufficient, entering at one end and connecting with a return at the other. A 
good plan is to build a short jjiece of pipe into the wall, through which to pass 
the pipe, afterward corking tight; tliis will prevent breaking the wall t" make 
connections when the piping is done. In the case of steam heating, no break 
in the wall is necessary, as the main pipe can be overhead and drop into the 
tank at one end, and the exhaust can empty into the tank, or it may be con- 
nected with an exhaust pipe and be conveyed tlirough the wall as recommended 
for hot water return pipe. 

An overflow and outlet pipe should also be provided. Any size, from one 
to two inches will answer the purpose; this should be built into the masonry at 
the Ijottom and c(.)nnected with a drain; the inlet should be a few inches from the 
wall, with an L piece fitting level with, or slightly l)elow the floor of the tank, 
the upright piece of pipe should screw easily int" the fitting, and sliould reach 
to within half an inch of the top of the tank. 

Where only a moderate number of plants is needed, a tank on the side 
benches ma\- l)e sutlicient for the purpose, yet two would be better than one. 
They may be twelve feet long, more or less, as the case demands; one should 
be eight inches deep, the other twelve. These should be made of white pine 
two inches thick and lined with 16 ounce copper, brazed. To afford means for 
heating, the wooden bottom may be omitted, save at the ends and one or two 
cross-tie pieces between, and the tank placed directly over the pipes, which 
should be boxed in with lumber, to confine the heat, and light T iron bars 
should be used across the bearers about nine inches apart, making a substan- 
tial rest for the bottom of the tank. Should it be required, arrangements can 
be made to have a part of either tank heated several degrees higher than the rest 
by having a one-inch division board in the tank, fitting it moderately tightly, 
and making a drop door in the front. An oil lamp or stove can be used for 
additional heat, and for use during the time when the pipe heat must be shut 
down in the dav when the sun is shining, and ventilation is necessary. 

If no bottom heat be used, the tank will need a two-inch bottom which 
maybe made of hemlock; the tank being lined with the copper as before 
advised. Such a tank being portable can be used in any convenient place 




"I i 



^ ■'' ~ 



y. "^ '< 



(>r\ikA.\i)k.\ i-i:xi;sTh'.\iJS 



6 c, 



(luring wiiitci- aiul spring, and may be placed uut uf doors in summer, or when 
not wanted inside. 

A tank ]:)rovided with bottom iieat is a useftd adjunct to any place, and 
when nut needed in winter for a<iuatics, it may be used for propagatino-, (,r for 
plunging- plants that need bottom heat, using such a medium as cocoanut fibre 
refuse, which indeed is the best fi>r such a purpose. If a tank of more than 
twelve inches depth be desiretl, one built of masonry is to be jireferred ; this 
not neccssai-ily occupying all the central space, but one end of the centre 
table, and that where it will derive the full benefit of light and sunshine. 

Do not jnit plants into new tanks immediately after they are finished and 
lilled with water; but allow the water to stand for three or four days, then 
allow more water io run in, and with the hose wash ofY' any scum, or anything 
that has gathered on the surface. Do not change the water if it be thick or 
cloudv, it will settle in a short time. 



OUVIRANlJRA FENESTRALIS (LACE OR LETTUCE LEAF PLANT). 

Among all the submerged water plants there is not anything that rivals 
this unitjuc plant. It is indigenous to sluggish streams in Madagascar. Its 
introduction dates back to the year 1855; although known t<.> cultivation for 
u ]) w a r d s of forty 
years, it is yet a rare 
]ilant, and when seen 
in good condition it is 
one of the most beau- 
tiful and attractive <.)f 
aijuatic plants. The 
leaves may be termed 
skeletonized; the}' are 

a mere net-work resembling lace, and on a well-grown plant measure from 
twelve to eighteen inches in length, and four to si.x inches in width, oblong, 
with an obtuse apex, and spreading out nearly horizontally beneath the 
surface of the water; they are bright green in color in the early stage, 
changing to deep green when fully grown, with a greenish yellow midrib; the 
flowers are white, the stem being split at the top into two spikes. 




INDlVlm-AL LEAF' OF OrvIRA.NDRA F]:NKHTRAr.IR. 



70 



Or\ IRA XDRA FENESTRA L IS. 



The plant delights in a rich soil similar to Nymplut-as, a warm house, 
the water temperature from 65° to 75°, partial shade, and a wooden vessel in 
preference to anything else. Some of the finest specimens seen have been 
grown in tubs — half kerosene barrels. It is unnecessarv to change the water. 




01 \ IKAMUtA FENtSTKAI.IH 



as when the plants are in a healthy condition they oxygenate the water and 
keep it clear, but conferva- will occasionally appear. The best means to clean 
this off and add to the health of the plant is to introduce a few tadpoles or 
water snails. 




AN AIJUATIC OAHDEN AMI FISHERY fOMI!INi:il. 

Tlir tliri'f pmii'ls sliott- tlw s.-iiiir s/Kit ;il ditlrrcnt sciis(jn.s of tlif yi':ir. Thr ujijifv [lid iirc 
ri'iiresctits the pond in full and ctirly sjiring iirotcctnl with fninif and sushfs. Tin- i-vntnil 
/lictxirf winter with its c-inriiiy of snow. The lower section shows the pond in summer witli 
aquiitii- plants : .\'yniph;e,is. fat Tails. Rushes, and Cy perns, and t lie Juvenile attfud.int fn-dini: 
the fish. This .sy.steni of covering- the aquatic tank orjiond is to lie conmieuded. 



CHAPTER XI. 

THE AMATEUR'S WATER GARDEN. 

NO BRANCH (if horticulture iscalculatcd to i;ivc more healthful recreatifin 
to both young and middle-aged persons than a water garden, even if 
only on a small scale. The additional attraction, and one of the essential 
occupants of the pond, is fish ; with these we have an ideal source of pleasure 
and recreati<jn which may be enjoyed by all lovers of nature, and especially 
the children. Few ])ersons, young or old, but have pets or some other hobby, 
and when children can indulge in the care of fish it is a delightful aid toward 
their recreation, instruction, and profit. Fish, in a very short time, become as 
much a pet with the young as does a kitten, and how pleasurable to a child to 
have them eat from its hand, or congregate when the water is disturbed. 

Fish of any kind are desirable in the pond, and should certainly be 
provided. Gold fish are always very attractive in small ponds, fountain basins, 
and tubs, where plants are growing, as are also Japanese fan-tails, and others 
in variety. 

The presence of frogs, tadpoles, and water snails is very essential, but 
the fish are liable to eat both the larvte of and the young snails themselves; 
sunfish are especially destructive and should not be put in the same water 
as the snails, unless for the express purpose of eradicating them. 

The illustration shows a small water garden built for the culture of fish as 
well as aquatic plants; this is located in one of our Western States, and subject 
to severe weather in winter, the thermometer occasionally falling to 20" 
below zero. The size of this pond is 4 ft. x 16 ft. and 3 ft. deep, divided into 3 
sections, the centre one being 3 ft. deeper for the fish in winter. The size and 
depth is not binding, but can be made to suit individual retpiircments. I have, 
in another place, described one 5V2 ft. x 12 ft., and 20 inches deep. The plants 
tan be grown in tubs or boxes, or in soil deposited in the bottom of the pond. 



74 



THE AMATEUR'S WATER CARDEN. 



A few Water Lilies, Grasses, and Cat-tails, with such plants as Myriophylliini, 
Caboraba, etc., will furnish the pond. A few Water Hyacinths are essential in 
the pond, as the fish will deposit their eggs on the roots of these plants, which 
are easily lifted out of the water and placed in jars or other vessels to hatch. 

The illustration represents the pond at different seasons of the year. The 
uppermost picture shows the mode of protection in early fall and spring, a 
removable frame and sash over the pond protecting the plants from early frosts 
and prolonging the sea.son. On the approach of winter weather, leaves, salt 
hay, straw, or similar material are packed around the frame, and the sash is to 
he covered with straw or straw mats, while a shutter or waterproof canvas is 
very desirable to keep the materials dry. Then let Dame Nature finish the 
work as shown in the central picture. On bright sunny days, and during a 
warm si)ell, the frame may be partly or wholly uncovered to allow the sun to 
warm the atmosphere inside and the water, and, as the days lengthen, the 
covering on the sashes may be dispensed with, and air admitted on l)right days. 
The jjlants will start into growth and have leaves and (lower buds long before 
our native varieties make their a])])earance on the surface of the water, and 
early in summer the water garden will take on an ajipcarance as represented 
in the lower panel. 




Nymph^a Marliacea chromatella. 




£ 5 S 



■ c ^ 
gj ::, =: 



.►J 



.§ ~~ 5 ■? 

5 = -,• t 



- I 3 ^ 



r" ^ ^ ■? L 
fi I ; 5 

•5 o C "" 



•S i ■£ -4 



S 5 5^-= 



!>: -^ L Q. 






CHAPTER XII. 

INSECTS, RATS, DISEASES, AND ENEMIES. 

FEW, IF AXV plants are abscjlutely free from insect pests, and Water Lilies 
and other acjuatics are no exceptions, thongh they are comparatively free. 
Aphides (green and black) will put in an appearance, and will generally be 
observed first on the young leaves of Nelumbiums, especially if other plants in 
the vicinity are affected. The syringe or hose should be brought to bear on 
them when ciuantitics will be washed away if not killed; the plants may also be 
dusted with tobacco dust, but this makes them very unsightly, and should 
only be used when other means fail. Green fly and black fly have their natural 
enemies, which after all are the best remedies; among these are the lady-birds, 
of which there are many species, all are carnivorous, with almost insatiable 
appetites, and very destructive to aphides. It is not so much the pretty little 
beetles that render assistance in the extermination of the aphis as it is the un- 
sightly dusky brown larvae; these fellows live to eat, and eat voraciously. 
They are met with on trees, shrubs, and plants in every section, and many 
persons not familiar with them and their mission, and believing that a bug is 
a bug, and that all bugs deserve the same fate, without any hesitation crush 
the life out of one of the greatest benefactors to the gardener. 

iVnother enemy to aphides is the lace-winged or golden-eyed tly; these 
are equally as destructive as the lady-birds, and in this case, also, it is the 
larvte that do the work. The perfect insect has four delicate, transparent, 
whitish wings, netted like fine lace, bright golden eyes, and a beautiful green 
body. While not so common as the lady-birds, they are frequently to be met. 
Other beneficial insects are the Syrphus flies, the larva of which are quite 
blind, but the eggs are deposited in the midst of colonies of plant lice, where, 
on hatching, the ymmg grope about and obtain an abundance of food without 
much trouble. All horticulturists should be familiar with these insects, and 
avoid using insecticides anywhere within reach of them. 



78 INSECTS. RATS. DISEASES, AND ENEMIES. 

Another destructive insect that attacks the Lotus is Botis nchmiliiis 
tliis makes its appearance early in the season, and while the first leaves are 
just floating on the water, it is somewhat of a leaf-roller, as it eats the surface 
of the leaf near the edge, rolls the edge over, and envelopes itself in a 
slight web; but later, as the insect matures, it finds its way into the centre of 
the leaf and enters the stalk, where it remains during the pupa state. The 
only known remedy is hand picking. Fortunately, this pest is not common, 
and thou,gh known for several years I did not see it until the season of 1896. 
There is also another very similar insect which made its appearance on the 
Nymph;eas, but in this case the larva cuts a [liece off the edge of the leaf, and 
uses it for a covering in the early stage; later, as it matures, it uses two 
pieces, between which the insect is sandwiched. As it is thus hidden and 
the covering or shield is the same as the leaf, nothing is noticeable but 
the perforations of the leaves; the best remedy is hand picking, and by keep- 
ing a constant watch, the colony of young ones may be destroyed by taking 
off the entire leaf as soon as possible after the insects appear. 

The Nelumbiums have still another enemy and probably the worst to 
combat, and that is the muskrat. Wherever these are known to exist every 
means musi be eniplnycd to eradicate them, they not only do much damage to 
the banks of the ])ond, but they eat the tubers of the Nelumbiums in winter or 
when in a dormant condition, but they do not molest the growing ])lants. They 
are also very partial to some Nymphtcas, especially X.chromatella. Nelumbiums 
growing in stiff, clayey soil are better protected against muskrats than are 
others growing in soft soil in which it is easy for the rats to burrow. Ti'apping 
is probably the best means to get rid of them, but they are very wary and 
scent danger ; often a trap set where one was known to have recently passed acts 
as a danger signal and wards off others. If the mtrskrats are known to be in the 
vicinity, hunt them down, never allowing them to make a settlement or C(-)lf>ny. 

Mice are destructive to both seed and tubers of tender Nymphseas; these 
can always be kept at bay, but ceaseless vigilance is necessary, and if yoxi have 
valuable tubers, watch them. 

Turtles should never be allowed in the p(5nds, at least in artificial ones, in 
some natural ones their presence cannot be avoided. They destroy young 
growth of both leaves and flowers, and are particularly destructive to the seed 
crop, even if the seed pods are tied in muslin bags. 

Algae and confervte of varioTis forms are occasionally troublesome, and 
though not a "disease " are injurious, being of a low order of plant life, some. 




•5ii 

•S ^ "- 



? "5 . 

? ^ i 



< -ICC 






II ! I 

S I 2 i 

■=^•1! 



He t- 

I 2l 



INSECTS. AM7'S, lUSHASHS. A.\l> EXHMIES. 



Si 



parasitical, choke the hfe out c_)f the plants on which they prey. Si_)me fi_)rms 
are like strong, green threads, and in simie instances, when allowed to go on 
unchecked, it is impossible to separate or disentangle the plants or leaves with- 
out breaking some; but in most cases such a conditi(.)n is only found where few 
or no fish are in evidence and plants are in an undisinrljcd condition. (,'onfervEe 
will form on some plants in stagnant water, especially on seedlings that have 
not arrived at a stage when floating leaves are attainable, and when hsh cannot 




LEAF III- HAiMfi' N\.\irii.i:v \i ii:r'ii:it wri ii i i:i;i 



l)e allowed in the water. In such instances the best remedy is Bordeaux mix- 
ture, (jne-third less than the usual strength as applied to other plants ; use 
with hand syringe, mereh' wetting the plants on the surface <!f the water; but 
this must not be used for conferva on (Juvirandra fenestralis, or it will kill the 
plant as well ; tliis will also check a certain damping off or rot on small seedlings. 
Plut this latter trouble is often the case of over-heating, and a lower tempera- 
ture will prove beneficial. 



82 I.\SF-:CTS. RATS. DISEASES. AXD EXEMIES. 

A sporatie trouble or bliyht has recently made its appearance to annoy 
aquaticulturists, it belongs to the order certosporte and is similar to the celery 
blight. A few lig-ht-colored spots appear on the oldest leaves, which spread 
rapidly, and the leaves soon after commence to rot where the spots appeared. 
As the leaves are thus destroyed the plant is considerably weakened and noth- 
ing like maturity can be obtained: the plant gets weaker and smaller, and 
would ultimately die. Hordcanx mixture is the best remedy: the new mixture. 
Potash Bordeaux, is preferable as it leaves no chalky or white-washed appear- 
ance. Apply with a fine spray or dip the leaves where plants are in a portable 
state. After treatment the leaves will, for a time, have the appearance of 
having been wiiitewashed, but as new leaves quickly rej^lace the others in a 
healthy or vigorous plant, those that were affected can be taken off in the 
course of a few days, but if more spots appear another api)lication of the 
fungicide will be necessary. 

There are several kinds of water snails, all more or less beneficial to the 
cultivator, but one species, with along black colored shell, is particularly fond 
of the green leaves of Hydrocharis and Aponogeton, as well as of the decayed 
leaves of other plants, confervte, etc. Should the plants be found to be eaten 
in this way, it is best to remove these plants to another tub or compartment by 
themselves, and introduce a sunfish or two, which will clear off the snails and 
their larva- in a remarkably short time. Sunfish will not only devour such snails 
as are injurious, but will take all kinds, and as all snails are beneficial (even those 
that eat Hydrocharis, etc., will not eat the leaves of the Ouvirandra), care 
must be taken in this respect, and sunfish must be kept in their proper 
place. It is questionable whether they should be kept at all in an artificial 
pond, lank, or tub. Water snails have other enemies besides sunfish; the larvae 
of the great dragon-fly will attack and destroj- them, but as their season is 
limited in duration, and the mature insect is more or less beneficial, and they 
are difficult to exterminate, we must patiently bear this apparent injury, know- 
ing they cannot do much, if an}-, injury indoors. 

Frogs and tadpoles are of great service and should be encouraged in and 
around the ponds; these, too, have their enemies, the domestic cat should 
never be allowed near the tanks, as pussy will surely find out the frogs as well 
as the fishes, of which she is particularly fond. 

In the natural ponds, water snakes will put in an appearance, these reptiles 
will devour both fish and frogs, and, until we are visited with a plague of the 
latter, destroy all snakes possible. 



CHAPTER XIII, 



HEATING PLANT FOR A VICTORIA OR TROPICAL WATER LILY POND. 

THERE IS PRCJBABLY some one feature in any heated Lily pond 
which is peculiar to itself — circximstances are as varied as locations are 
numerous — yet, withal, the general inulerlyint;- principles are the same. The 
intelligent constructor will be able ti> learn some useful hints from a detailed 
description of one successful heating system, and therefore reference is now 
made to unc (jnly — that of Prospect Park, Brooklyn, N. Y., where an 
extensive water garden is to be seen. A space has been laid nut in the park 
for three ponds, which are walled up with concrete and provided with a water 
supply and an outlet. One pond is used for the hardy native Water Lilies, 
another pond is exclusively used for the Egyptian I^olus, while the third 
pond, which is of absorbing interest t" the multitudes who visit the park, is 
used for tropical species, the principal plant being Victoria regia. The water 
in this is heated, and the construction of the pond and its systeni of piping are 
set forth in the accompanying figures. 

The water in the pond is heated by contact with the piping through which 
hot water is circulated from the boiler. The pond is oval in form, fifty-six feet 
long, thirty-eight feet in width, and about four feet deep. From the sectional 
view it will be seen that the sides of the pond shjpe inward to the bottom, 
commencing at a point about tW(i feet below the surface. A water line is 
maintained about three feet six inches above the main bottom, and the pcjnd 
holds approximately forty-eight thousand gallons. The water is heated by a 
No. lo Invincible hot water boiler, which presents a grate surface of about 
eleven square feet, and the boiler is rated to carry about two thousand five 
hundred square feet of direct radiation for heating buildings. The piping is 
four inches in size, of the greenhouse cast-iron variety, with greenhouse 
fittings and rust ii>ints. Two fiow and two return mains are taken from the 




BOILER 



if 

I* .11 g 

B*— if 


4p 



\ 



SUPPLY 
VALVE 



KEITION ALONG LINK A I!. 




' '^'W^^^//////////Ml/////M//^M//M/y/^^ ,,/,/J'//y>///m/y///My/y/'/y^^'^"' 



Hi:\l'lN'<i A LII.V P()M>— PKOSI'ECT I'AKK, \. V. 



BOILER 

Q 

V^rd " b ny 



hi; AT IXC I'LAXT FOR .1 LILY I'OSD 85 

boiler to the pipin;;' m the tank. The Ihuv mains rise from the side of the 
boiler, whieh is of the seetional type, and rnn on a Ijriek fimndation inelosed in 
a wooden box to the Lily pond. 

<r>n reaching- the pond the two flow mains liave a stand-pipe, which serves 
both as an air vent and an expansion iii]K'. From this point the i^ipini; has a 
fall all the way back to the lioiler. After passing- the standpipe the tlnw main 
drops down and rnns aronnd to a point near the main Lib' lied where it 
connects with a Y, frum which twc) tour inch pipes are run around the pond, 
turns being made by means ot 45 ells, as shown. ( )n reaching the ^.loint 
where the return main leaves the tank, the two four inch pipes are connected 
into a Y and from it to the return main. This method nf piping is followed in 
each end of the pond. 

The requirements laid di)wn by the Park Comniissi<jners were that a tem- 
perature of 90° should be maintained in the water, regardless of the tempera- 
ture or amount of water that it might lie necessary to turn inti> the jxmd. The 
fires are first lighted early in June. The water, which had been taken from 
the street mains to supply the pond and change the water in it, has varied in 
temperature from 40 to 50 , and the sjiecified tem]3erature in the pond has 
lieen readily maintained, sometimes running as high as 96* when the weather 
was bright and clear and the sun strong. 

When an outlet at one end of the pond draws off the hot water to reduce 
the temperature, cold water is brought in to restore the jiropcr temperature 
and level. 

An overfl(.)w pipe is provided at each end of the pond to prevent the water 
rising above the desired height. In operation it has been found that it is only 
necessary to attend to the fire in the boiler twice a day, and in damp, dull and 
cloudy weather, when little heat benefit is derived from the sun, no difficulty 
has been found in maintaining the temperature at 90'' or higher, with the 
water in the flow main seldom exceeding 120". The water in the pond is 
heated by contact with the pipes, in order to avoid a deposit of mud in the 
boiler that would be probable with the water in circulation, owing to the earth 
for the plants in the pond and the dust that would blow into the pond and 
settle, both of which would be carried into the boiler. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF WATER LILIES, WITH CULTURAL MEMORANDA. 

I HAKDV NY.MPH.KAS. 

Xvnilili;L-;i alhu. (White Water Lily). Thi.s species, native of Great 
Britain, has long been in cultivation. It is a vigorous growing plant, with 
dark green glossy foliage, and large, white, cup-shaped flowers. It is well 
adapted for use in either artificial or natural ponds, and shallow or deep water, 
but is being superseded by new varieties and by hybrids of greater merit. 

.V. a. aindirliasima is like the preceding in every way, except that it has 
larger flowers with broad petals. It is one of the best for planting in large ponds 
where bold effect is desired, its masssive foliage and flowers standing out well 
above the water, as seen in the illustration on page ii. 

A'. hluiKhi is a vigorous and free flowering species, somewhat similar to 
N. a. gigantea; flowers of dazzling whiteness in which respect it is unsurpassed 
by any other white flowered Water Lily in cultivation. 

.V. caiulichi. (syn. semiaperta). A Bohemian species, similar to N. alba, 
but of moderate growth. Flowers of snowy whiteness, two and one-half to 
three inches across; sepals tinged with green. 

The L.WDEKERi VAKiKTiES are among the choicest of hybrid Nymphteas; 
their flowers are medium sized (two and one-half to three inches in diameter), 
the plants are vigorous, but not robust like the Marliacea forms. They are 
admirably adapted for ponds of moderate size, where space is limited and the 
greatest variety is desired ; they are also well adapted for growing in tubs. 

.V. L Mgens, as the name indicates, is of a glowing brilliant color; petals 
crimson magenta; stamens garnet rose. Flowers beautifully cupped, glowing 
like a brilliant in the sunshine. 

.V. L. f'ulva has large star-shaped flowers; the four sepals are greenish yel- 
low; petals creamy yellow sufl:used with red, stamens golden yellow. Leaves 
dark green, mottled with red. 

A'. L. lilacea has a delicately formed and chaste flower of a soft rosy lilac 
color with yellow stamens. It is exquisitely fragrant, resembling a Tea Rose. 
Leaves deep glossy green, with occasional dark blotches. 

.V. L. purpurata is somewhat larger than the others of this group and the 



llARf'Y XYMI'ILILAS. 87 

petals lung-er and more hhar})ly puinted; (lowers \-ery symnietrieal : of a rich 
rosy crimson color; stamens oranye red. 

A'. L. rosea has proved a universal favorite, the peculiarity of the fl(.>\vers 
ehanginj,'' from a rosy jiink to rose purple as they age, affords most pleasing 
combinations and gradations of hue. Where several plants are grown together 
the numerous flowers of various shades give a charming feature, not elsewhere 
known in Water Lilies. This variety is well adapted for large aquariums and 
will produce its dainty (lowers even when growing in a f(.)ur inch pot, but its 
true character, size and color are seen only when planted in a natural jiond 
and left undisturbed for at least two seasons. 

N. L. hiciihi has large flowers of a rosy-vermilion color with orange 
stamens. Leaves beautifully mf>ttled with chestnut red. 

N. Roliinsoni with flowers larger than those of the Laydekeri varieties is 
<listinct and uni(|ue in color, the yellow ground color is overlaid by a purplish 
violet-red, deei)ening toward the center of the flower; the stamens form a crown 
of orange red color. The leaves are dark green, spotted with chestTUit brown. 

-V. Seigninircti. flowers delicate yellow, shaded with soft rose and carmine, 
borne on erect stems and stand about six inches above the water. Leaves 
spotted with chestnut brown. 

The ALAkr.i.Ac.t:.\ Hvdrids mark the introduction of hyljrid hardy Water 
Lilies, and include the very best forms. Although other gems have since 
been introduced, they do not compare with these for general utility; the plants 
are vigorous and robust, flowers large, very effective in groups and masses in 
large ponds, or as single specimens. 

A^. M. cilhkla has all the good qualities of X. alba candidissima ; the 
flowers are larger and fragrant, of a dazzling, sparkling whiteness, and pro- 
duced very freely until frost. The stamens are occasionally flushed jiink, es- 
pecially when grown in stifl" soil. 

A'. M. carnca is in every respect, save color, similar to the preceding 
variety. The flower is of a soft flesh pink color, which deepens toward the 
base of the petals, sepals rose pink; with a delicate fragrance of vanilla. 

A' M. cliromatclla has flowers of a lovely canary yellow, with deep yellow 
stamens, large and handsome, and is imdoubtedly the best yellow hardy 
Water Lily. Leaves bronzy green, with chocolate red markings. Plant very 
vigorous, inclined to be bunchy or crowded, and should therefore have plenty 
of room and be in permanent quarters where it is not likely to be often dis- 
turbed. The water should be two or more feet deep. 

A^ i1/. ro.sxvT has the same vigorous habit as the preceding varieties, the 
flowers are of the largest size and a beautiful deep rose color, the young foliage 
is purplish red, changing to deep green. All things considered, this is the 
best hardy pink Water Lily; large flowers, fine color, and free flowering. 

A'. M. Hanimca and the following varieties are of recent introduction, and 
are vet but little known in the United vStates. The flowers of flammea are 



88 HARDY XYMl-H.^AS. 

bri;j;-ht amaranth red, shaded white: the outer petals pink, the color deepen- 
ing- toward the center; stamens deep orange. 

.V. M. ignea, one of the most striking of recent introductions, has flowers 
of magenta red and stamens orange red. It is a brilliant flower in the sun- 
shine, and is highly spoken of in England, where it apparently does well. At 
present it has nt)t proved to l)e a vigorous grower, nor so .satisfactory under 
cultivation in the United States. 

.V. M. riihrn punctata has a beautiful flower of moderate size, flowers of 
deep rosy purple, spotted carmine, with orange stamens. 

X. udorata. Our native sweet scented Water Lily, is widely distributed, 
and can be found in many ponds, lakes and slow running streams. Under 
cultivation, associated with other species, it has been fertilized from them by 
insects; in this way and also by other means several forms and gradations 
(some very choice) in size and color have resulted. The best forms are very 
desirable for their large, pure white flowers and delicious fragrance. The 
sepals are very often edged with pink, giving the appearance in bud of a pink 
fl(jwer. A grand Water Lily for naturalizing. 

.V. <>. caroliiiiana. A natural cross that originated with Dr. Henry T. 
Bahnson, of Salem, N. C. The petals are of a delicate soft pink and the golden 
stamens reflect a lovely salmon tint. It varies through several shades in color 
under certain conditions and soils. The flowers are of the largest size. A 
very choice and select variety, and has proved a great acquisition where it has 
remained undisturbed for two or three seasons. 

N. o. excjiiisita has large, rosy carmine flowers, much deeper in color than 
those of N. o. rosea, and is the darkest colored Lily in this group. Foliage 
dark red. Moderate grower. A h_vbrid of French origin, and very beautiful. 

A', o. gigantca, sometimes called the Southern odorata, being common 
from N. Carolina to Florida, and the only white variety indigenous to this 
section, differs from N. odorata in being a more vigorous grower. Large, 
handsome, green foliage, imder side bright red. Root-stock occasionalh' very 
large and hard. The flowers are large and pure white, somewhat incurving, 
and lacking the delicious fragrance peculiar to the type. It requires a deeper 
water than the type to grow it to perfection. 

,V. o. maxima. This is entirely different from the type; the flowers are 
large and cup-shaped; petals broad at the base, and without a tinge of red on 
either sepals or petals. A most beautiful variety, found in New Jersey. This 
is probably the same as the variety N. o. superba. (Some doubts exist as to 
this and the preceding variety belonging to the odorata group). 

A', u. minor is, as its name implies, small. Leaves only two to five inches 
across, and flowers two to three. A very pretty plant, and well suited for 
growing in tubs. It is found true in some sections of New Jersey in shallow 
water of cold bogs and poor soil. There are other forms of N. o. minor with 
somewhat cup shaped flowers, and only slightly fragrant. 




MUSA ENSETE. 
Probably the most noble ol all our subtropical plants, its full beauty and true character can only be seen in large specimen, as 
here shown. The plant being indigenous to Abyssinia and warm climes, requires protection in winter. The plant shown 



above is about lo ft. high, with leaves 6 feet long and 2 feet broad, 
insignificant under its shadow. 



The Giant Elepbant-Ear plants and Eulalias are 



HARDY NYMl'Il.UAS. 89 

iV, (). n>s;w;u;i. In habit and (general appearance resembles N. o. 
exquisita; it is, however, more vigorous. ^'lowers bright rose, lighter 
toward the center, the rich yellow stamens producing a soft salmon shade of 
color; the petals are narrow and pointed, the flower being like a pink star 
floating among the leaves. A very desirable variety. 

.V. (>. rosea. The well-known Cape Cod pink Water Lily; is indispensable 
in any collection. Flowers deep pink and ver)- fragrant. Early and free 
flowering; its season is somewhat shorter than that of some varieties. It 
produces seed freely, and t<j prolong the season the dead flowers should be 
taken off and no seed allowed to ripen, which can be easih' accomplished 
where only a few plants are grown. In extreme hot weather the flowers are 
apt to bleach, but in cool sections and districts like Eastern Massachusetts the 
plants and flowers are to be gr<nvn in ])erfection. 

No. sulpburat is distinct fr(jm any of this class. The large, handsome 
yellow flowers stand about six inches above the water; the young leaves are 
beautifully mottled with chestnut. A free and vigorous plant of French 
origin. 

N. pvgmxn. This is the smallest species in cultivation; the flowers, which 
are pure white, are among the first to be seen in sjjring, and ccjiitinue a long- 
season. The species is well adapted for tub culture, also tor the aiiuariimi, 
and it will produce its dainty white flowers in a four inch pot. When planted 
out and left undisturbed for two or three seasons the flowers are larger and 
very pretty, making a beautiful contrast tij the other giant species. It forms 
no runners or side shoots, and does not spread rapidly. 

N. ]). Ilclvohi. This is ill truth more of a pygmy than the species; flowers, 
hcjwever, a trifle larger, canary yellow, produced very freely. Especially 
recommended for cultivation in tubs and at|uaria. Leaves beautifidly 
mottled with reddish brown, and smaller than in the type. 

N. sj)li;uroc!irj)a (Caspar}''s Lily). The true Swedish Lily. A distinct and 
beautiful species, and very unlike N. alba, of which some claim it to be a 
variety. While it is a very desirable form and highly spoken of in ICngland 
and in Europe generally, it is ver)- scarce, and does not flourish as do others 
under general cultivation. It has been flowered in the United States, ]>ut is 
apparently very impatient of removal, the least disturbance causing a check to 
its growth and stopping its flowering. Another drawljack to its cultivation is 
its dislike to hot weather; if it was plentiful it would doubtless succeed in ponds 
where cold springs are a hindrance t<j the successful cultivation of (jther 
desirable species. It blooms quite early in the season; the flcjwers are 
rosy carmine, with orange stamens, deepening in color the second and 
third days. 

jV. tiilicr<js;t (s\'n. reniformis) is a native species of the Western and North- 
western lakes, where it grows in deep water. A strong and njbust plant. 
Leaves eight to fifteen inches wide; flowers white, four and a half to nine 



90 TENDER XYMFIE^AS, DAY BLOOM IX(i. 

inches in diameter; slightly fragrant. The root-stuck bears numerous 
spontaneotislv detaching, often compound, tubers. This should be excluded 
from small ponds, and should be planted by itself. 

.V. f. j)lcn;i. Flowers white, large and full; petals very numerous, the 
stamens being converted into petals, which are fluted in the center of the 
flower. Plant less v-igorous than the type. All N. tuberosa forms should be 
grown in deeper water than other types. 

A^. t. rosea. A natural cross Flowers are a lovely pink, standing well 
above the water, somewhat less vigorous than the type. 

II. TENDER W.Arr.R I.II.IES DAY HL00MIN(;. 

Xvmplixa cneruica (syn. stellata). This is the ancient blue Lotus of the 
Nile, but is not a Nelumbium. The flowers are light blue; petals long and 
narrow; sepals greenish white, suffused blue; stamens light yellow, tipped 
blue; leaves light green, spotted in the young state, changing to green ; the 
underside of leaf also green. A distinct and beautiful species. 

A', elegans. A pretty Mexican Water Lily of moderate size, three to four 
inches over. Color, white tinged with purplish blue; the stamens yellow, 
tipped blue. A charming flower. Leaves long and narrow, deep green, 
spotted purplish brown. Well adapted for tuli culture, and producing its 
dainty flowers very early in the season. 

A^. ffava. The well-known Florida yellow Water Lily, and the only known 
yellow species. This has been introdticed into man\- States and sections of 
the country, but has not been a success under any kind of culture. It is hardy 
as far north as New Jersey, a moderate grower, and jiroduces numerous 
runner-like shoots forming young plants. Its greatest merit consists of its 
being undoubtedly one of the parents of Marliac's magnificent yellow hybrids 
which are now widely known and are many times more desirable for all garden 
purposes. 

A', ffigantea, the Australian species, is sometimes confounded with N. 
odorata gigantea. This is probably the finest, most handsome and distinct of 
all Nymphasas. The color is a soft satiny ])urplish blue, shading to white at 
the base of the petals; the stamens are silk-like, soft yellow, incurving, unlike 
any other species. The flower is carried well above the foliage on a stiff 
stalk, and is of the largest size. The leaves are green, with purple reverse. 
This species is very impatient of removal, re-potting, or transplanting, during 
its early stages. It should not be allowed to get pot bound, nor subjected 
to sudden changes of temperature, which will cause a check and a suspension 
of active growth. Plants, seedlings, or tubers in their early stages should be 
grown in a temperature of So° to 90°; later, a temperature of 75° to 80° will 
suit them. (See plate facing page 40.) 

A' j^Tacilis. A iMexican species of great merit, has large, handsome, star- 
shaped white flowers, which are borne on stout stems well above the foliage. 



TENDER XVMI'.EIIAS. DAY lUJJOMISC. 



91 



It is wurthy of special ncite as bciiii;' the only white day-blooming tropical or 
tender sjiecies; a very vigorous plant, free (Imvering, the flower possessing a 
delicate fi'agrance, resembling Lily of the \'alley. (See plate facing page 24.) 
A'. iiic.\ic;ui;i. This is possililv a form cif X. tlava, which it resembles in 
most respects. The habit is the same, but the runner plants nut infrequently 
produce flowers during the lirst season. The plant is altogether freer flower- 
ing, and the flowers are brighter and deeper in cohir. The plant is the same 
in hardiness as N. flava. 




STII.I.AIK FORM CIF NVMI'ILKA. 

Seedling of N. gracilis. 



jV. pukhcrrimn. \'ery vigorous and free flowering; possibly no other 
equals it. The flowers are very large under high cultivation — ten to twelve 
inches acros.s — of a beautiful light blue, with deep yellow stamens tipped blue; 
the sepals are irregularly striped dark red. Unlike N. zanzibarensis, this 
variety opens its lovely flowers at early morn, and remains open until other 
species are mostly closed. The leaves are large, and often exceed two feet in 
diameter, having long tapering lobes and irregularly crenated margin. Garden 
hvbrid of American orioin. 



92 TENDER NYMPH^AS, KICHT BLOOMLXd. 

N. scutifolin (syns. versicolor, cyanea, radiata). This is a beautiful star- 
shaped distinct species. The flowers are clear pale blue, shading to white at 
the base of the petals. Flowers very fragrant. Leaves variable, green, 
sometimes with a purplish tint, the underside occasionally bright red, with 
brownish red markings; margin smooth. Native of Cape of fiood Hope. 

iV. zanziharcnsis (the Royal Purple Lily). This and its several forms are 
among those that might be styled everj-body's flowers. They are the simplest 
to manage, easily raised from seed, will flourish in a tub even if the leaves are 
high and dry. Tubers and plants are no longer held at an exorbitant price, 
and they give the greatest amount of pleasure for a trifling cost. Flowers of 
the true form are of the largest size imder high culture; the sepals and 
stamens are purple, with red margin; petals intense blue. ( )ne of the most 
beautiful and free flowering of all Water Lilies. Highly fragrant. The 
foliage is dark green, with blotches of reddish brown and bright purple under- 
neath. 

.V. z. nziircn. Similar to the type, but varying in color from a light to 
dark blue; sepals never purple; leaves green, with dark markings; the under- 
side green, shaded more or less with purple. 

\. z. rosQii. Similar to the type save in color, varying from deep carmine 
to pink; leaves shaded red on the under side. All the Zanzibar Water Lilies 
are very free flowering, and are accommodating either for tub culture, ponds, 
or lakes. 

Ill IKNIIKR W.VTER I.IIJES. NICHT BLOO.MIXG. 

Nymphiua cnlumhiann. A deep, rich, dark red flowered variety of 
medium size, six inches across; stamens cardinal; the color deepens each 
succeeding day. Foliage dark bronzy red. Plant of moderate growth. 

N. Dcaninna. A robust plant with large bronzy green foliage; petals of a 
beautiful pink, with darker sepals; stamens red. \evy free flowering, requires 
plenty of room for leaf spread and a depth of water twelve to eighteen inches 
above the crown of the plant. Hylirid of American origin. 

N. dclkatlxsima. A delicate and choice flower of a distinct and pleasing 
carmine pink color; the foliage has a bronzy green lustre. The plant is vigor- 
ous, yet moderate compared with some others. Desirable for all purposes and 
has proved one of the best for cutting, and also for winter culture. 

N.rJevoniensis. This, one of the oldest, is also one of the choicest night- 
blooming Water Lilies in cultivation, and is indispensable in any collection of 
moderate size. Under liberal cultivation a single plant will cover about two 
hundred square feet of water surface, and produce numerous flowers. One 
plant has been known to have on it at one time as many as thirty-six flowers 
and buds in different stages of development. The flowers are large, ten to 
twelve inches across, of a brilliant rosy red, a most pleasing color by artificial 
light, and are borne on stems well above the water. The leaves are red chang- 



TEXDER Xi'MI'ILEAS. XIGHT BEOOMLW. 93 

ing- to bronzy green. The first hybrid of note, and was raised at Chatsvvorth, 
England, and named in honor of the Duke of Devonshire. 

A'^ (Icntatn is the largest and best white of this class. It has Ii>ng pointed 
buds, and flowers of the largest size, opening horizontally, and measuring ten 
to twelve inches over. The leaves are deep green with serrated edges. Native 
of Sierra Leone. 

A', kcwcnsis is not generally met with, but it has established itself as a first- 
rate and desirable variety in any collectinn. The flower is a bcantiful rosy red 
of the first size. Plant vigorous, with Ijronzy green foliage, purjilish under- 
neath. A hybrid of linglish origin. 

X. lotus. (syn. thermalis). An ancient sjiecies, indigenous to lower 
Egypt, and is associated with the Egyptian and blue Lotus, lieing held sacred 
to Isis and was engraved on the ancient coins. The flowers ai'c white with 
sepals and outer petals flushed iiink, large and incurving; somewhat cup- 
shaped. A strong and vigorous plant, with leaves of deep green, with serrated 
edges. 

N. 0\\Eir;iiin is of recent introduction, and has acliie\'ed a grand reputa- 
tion. The tlower is above the average of large flowers, attaining a size of from 
12 to 15 inches across; it is borne well above the foliage (.>n a stout stalk, and 
as it opens to the full, the sepal and outer petals droop. The color is a beauti- 
ful rosy red with an indescribable glow produced by the rays of the rising sun. 
The leaves are large and of a dark bronzy red heavily dentated. Under high 
cultivation it is a robust plant without any appearance of coarseness, and is 
also very free flowering at a very early stage. The largest and best of the red 
Nymphseas. Hybrid of American origin. 

A^. rubra is a beautiful red species, somewhat rcsemliling N. Devoniensis 
but the sepals are broader at the base and deeper in C(_)lor, the petals being less 
pointed. The leaves are rounded at the apex and mottled purplish on the 
reverse; otherwise the plant is similar to Devoniensis. 

X. rulirn-roscn in general characteristics resembles the preceding, and 
is liable to be confused with it. The flower is much the same, hut is 
larger, and brighter in color, with longer buds and is more iiointcd. 

A^. Smithiann. All the tropical Water Lilies deliglit in a ]ii,i;h temi)era- 
ture, and if this one can be grown in a Victoria pond or in a temperature 
corresponding, the true character and chaste coloring will l)e very greatly 
developed. The flower is of medium size, perfectly cup-shaped, creamv white 
with 3'ellow stamens; petals broad and of great substance; the reverse or outer 
side of the petals is delicate pink. The higher the temperature the deeper 
and brighter the color. American hybrid. 

A'. Sturtcvnnti. A superb variety, with large bright rosy red flowers of 
massive proportions, petals broad and the flowers more cup-shaped. Reciuires 
a high temperature to develop its true character. Plants sluuild l)e started 
early, as they do not flower until well develojK'd. A magnificent Water Lilv 



94 THE VICTORlA.-SELVMBirMS. 

and worthy of additional care to bring it to perfection. American hybrid. 
(See plate facing' page 48). 

IV. THK. V1CT0RI.\ (lUE ROYAL W.VTFR IlLV), XfiU KURYAI.E. 

Victoria re<^in. This is the most wonderful of all water plants. It inhabits 
the tranquil bays and lakes of the great streams of South America, and details 
of its discover)' will be found on page 53. The plant is of gigantic proportions, 
the leaves grow to an immense size — from six to seven feet across — with a 
vertical rim from three to eight inches high. The flowers are from twelve to 
fifteen inches in diameter, with vers' numerous petals. The color of the flower 
is white on the first opening day, changing on the second day to rosy pink. 

r. rcj^ia var. iJciWf/// was discovered and introduced by Edward S. Rand, 
Jr., of Para, Brazil, and it differs from the original in several particulars. 
The whole plant is more robust; the young leaves are of a darker bronz\' 
color; the vertical rim on well-grown plants is five to six inches high, giving 
the plant a striking and novel appearance. Leaves are produced six to seven 
feet in diameter. The flowers of this variety are white on the first day, 
changing on the second day to a dec]') crimson. 

Victoria rc^ia. Trickcr's variety. A new distinct Victoria with well- 
marked characteristics ])rovisionally named as here given, but may be differ- 
ently entitled on further knowledge. Amung its peculiarities are: first the 
early cupping of the leaves, the turned up rim being shown by quite small 
plants; the full grown leaves are large, of a lustrous bright green color, and 
the rim is from si.x to eight inches deep. The flowers are also produced much 
earlier than on the other \'ictorias, and are larger, measuring from fifteen to 
eighteen inches over, they are white on opening changing to a lively rose pink 
on the second day. The sepals in this variety are smooth, whereas the others 
are spinous to the lips, another striking characteristic is that it can be successfully 
grown in a much lower temperature than is usually advised for other Victorias. 
The seed will also germinate in a lower temperature, in fact the plant does 
remarkably well treated precisely the same as the tropical Nyniph;eas. 

Eurvalc fernx was the noblest aquatic in cultivation prior to the introduc- 
tion of the \'ictoria, its large circular leaves are from two to three feet in di- 
ameter, with prominent spiny veins on the rich purple underside, the upperside 
being olive green, puckered and spin3^ Flower small and insignificant, of a 
deep violet blue. 

V. NELUMBIUMS EGYPTIAN AND JAPANESE LOTUS. 

Nelumhium album grancUHoruni . A magnificent large white Lotus, its pure 
white flowers tower above the handsome foliage and contrast conspicu- 
ously against the carmine pink of other Nelumbiums. (iiven the same soil as 
Nymphseas and located in a warm sheltered spot, and not removed too fre- 
quently, this plant will produce flowers in plenty. 



NHLUMBIUMS. 95 

A', a. struitinii. A large and bold rtowcr; petals white, tipped and striped 
rusy i-armine; it is a xignrous and rdnist \-ariety, and flowers very freely 
under liberal eulture. 

.V. hitcum. The well known American L(.itus fir Water Chincjiiapin has 
flowers of pale yellow, thoiiijh (leeasiunally in stiff elayey soils, the enlorisas 
deep as in Nympluea ehrumatella. Plant but a moderate grower, and under 
artiheial cunditions shuukl receive lil)eral treatment. Where estaldished in 
natural p(ind> and lakes, it is vignrous and free. 

N. ruscuin. The flowers of this have the deepest color of any Lotus in 
cultivation, in furni they are more globular than others. Deep rose pink. 
Plant vigrirous and not as tall-growing as in N. speciosa. 

iV. Sbicoman. A Japanese Lotus <if recent introduction ; of robust growth, 
])roducing leaves and flowers of gigantic proportions. The leaves are from 
thirty-si.x to forty inches across, supported on stout stems five to si.\ feet high; 
the large double white flower is a marvel of nature's production; as free flower- 
ing as any single form and deserving of the best and most liberal cultivation. 

iV, spcciosum. The world famed Egyj.itian Lotus now so well known 
throughout the United States, and as hardy and as easily grown as the native 
Water Lil}', except, perhaps, in extreme northern sections. The flowers are 
rose pink, cream}- white at the base of the petals, but on first opening the 
flowers, or rather the buds, are a lovely shadeof deep rose pink; the flowers are 
not fully expanded till the sec<jnd day, when they are in their best form. Ne- 
lumbiums like Xymph;eas are three-day flowers, but unlike Nyrnpha-as they 
only partially close at night. .See plate facing page 56. 

A'. Kcniicsinniini. A Japanese plant of great merit; the flowers are of a 
beautiful carmine rose color and satiny texture, of large size. Vigorous, free 
flowering, and early. 

A'. Scihnkurcn. A pygmy among Nelumliiums, has leaves six to eight 
inches across, on stalks about one foot in lengih. The flower is pure white, 
the li->ng pointed bud resembling a large tulip. Can be grown in a small tub 
or large pot standing in water. 



CHAPTER XV. 



MISCELLANEOUS AQUATIC PLANTS. 



I. TKN'DKU. 

Aponoffctoji distiichynn. (Cape Pond Weed). Flowers white, fragrant; pro- 

dnccd freely at all seasons; especially to be recommended for winter flowering. 

Araliii jjnpvrifcrn. (syn. Fatsia papyrifera). The Chinese Rice Paper 

plant. A valuable plant for subtropical work, especially in the sub-aqnatic 

garden. It delights 
in a moist, half-shady 
sp(jt. A native of the 
shady swamps of For- 
mosa. 

Cvjicnis nhcnii- 
folius. { L' m b rclla 
(irass). A desirable 
plant for pot culture; 
also for planting on 
theedgesof the ponds, 
or submerged in 
water, 

C. n. \;in'cj^-;ittis. 
Similar to the preced- 
ing type, but having a distinct variegation of white; a desirable variety, but 
inconstant. 

C. /(. i^T/ic/Z/s. A small form of Cyperus with narrow foliage; dwarf and 
distinct. 

C. nntak'nsis. An ornamental species, with long Pandanus-like foliage. 
C. papyrus, (syn. Papyrus antiquorum). The ancient Egyptian paper 
plant. It grows in marshy places, and on the banks of rivers, and is 
indispensable in the water garden. 

C piingciis. vSimilar to C. alternifolius, but is a deep green in color; grows 
taller, and is much stilifer. 




Aponosetdn Jist.ichyon. 



TEXDHR AOTATICS. 



97 



luclmniin nziiicn. ( Blue Water Hvacintli). This species is a rampant 
s^Tuwer in congenial quarters and it tlowers nn.ire freely than E. c. major, 
producing larger spikes of flowers of a lovely shade of lavender-blue. 

E. crassipcs mnjoi: (Water Hyacinth). A floating plant forming rosettes 
of curious leaves, having stems swollen at the I)ase which ccjntains numerous 
air cells; flowers soft rosy lilac. Advisable not to plant where it will not be 
winter-killed, as it will block navigable streams, and be a source of much 
tr(juble and expense to eradicate. 

Ilcdvcbiiim curonnrium. ((iarland flower). An exceedinglv ornamental 
plant; flower white, sweet scented. 

Jussixa loniiifiilin. A very attractive and desirable aquatic jjlant, .growing 
two ti) three feet high ; erect and slightly droojjing at the p:.)ints. Flowers 
bright yellow, .somewhat resembling an Evening Primrose. 

LimiuiinlKiuinu indicuni. (syn. Villarsia Humboldtiana). Floating heart, 
Commonly known as Water .Snowflake. Flowers pure white, covered with hirsute 
glands; very pretty, interesting and attractive flower. 

L. trnchv^j)cniium. (The Fairy Water Lily), l-'lowers pure white, small, 
borne on the s ime stem with the leaf. 

Litiiniich.iris Iluinhnhlli. (The 
Water Poppy). Flowers are beauti- 
ful clear yellow with black sta- 
mens; leaves oval, iloating; re- 
cpiires shallow water. 

L. I'lumicri. This is an erect 
growing plant; standing two feet 
out of the water. Flowers straw 
color ; leaves elliptical, light 
green. 

Manintn zc}}riii:i. While not 
an aquatic, it is valuable as a 
sul)tropical plant; its handsome 
green foliage is Ijarred with deep 
greenish purple, the \uider side of 
leaf dull dark greenish purple. 

Miisii ensctc. The most picturesque of all (.)ur subtropical plants, from 
three to ten feet high, leaves two to six feet long and two feet broad, midrib 
bright red. Indispensable from the water garden, its broad magnilieent foliage 
adding a tropical effect quite in harmony with the tropical Xymph;eas and 
Victoria. See plate facing page SS. 

Mvri(ijjli\ Ihmi /iniscr/ilmicuirlcs. (Parrot's Feather). A graceful half-hardy 
aquatic, with pretty feathery appearance. Makes a beautiful hanging basket 
plant, and for filling a vase or fountain is unerjualed. 




Limnocharis HumbolJti. 



98 



HARDY AorATICS. 



I'isti.-i stmtinies. (Water Lettuce). A fluatinj;' plant; leaves wedge- 
shaped, two to five inches long: of a delicate pale green, covered with fine 
hairs. Delights in warmth and shade. 

Sagittnria hincifulin, (syn. S. falcata). A strong grower; and, unlike 
the more familiar species, the leaves are lanceolate, never sagittate; the 
scape three to five feet high, and covered with large, pure white flowers. 

S. muntevidicnsh. ((iiant Arrowhead). Truly, a (liant Arrowhead; 
leaves fifteen inches long on tapering stalks four to five feet high ; flower 




mmmw^i 



M\rioph\ lluir. proserpinacoiJes. 

scape massive and taller than the leaf stalk. The flowers are pure white, 
with a dark blotch at the base of each petal. 

Thalin dealhata. A sub-aquatic plant; very ornamental as a subtropical 
subject; leaves ovate on long petioles; flowers purplish, small. 



II. HARDY. 

.4conis calumny. The well-known Sweet Flag. 

.•1. i^ramincii^ variegatiis. A diminutive form like A. calamus, with grass- 
like leaves, beautifully variegated, constant. Will nut scorch in summer, and is 
equally good in shady spots. 



HARDY MHATICS. 



99 



.1. i;iiii>nicus v:iricL;;ilu>. ( N^ariegated Sweet Flag). I'ulia-c beautifully 
striped white; it grows well in dry nr mnist snil. ( )ne of the finest variegated 
plants in cultivation. 

Alismn nntans. A small aquatic with elliptical lloating leaves and nunier- 
iius three-petaled wliite flowers. 

.1 jiL-inin^i}. (\\"ater Plantain). Flowers delicate pale rose color; scape 

branched; branches whorled, com- 
pound. 

Asclcpius inc-truntn. Flciwers 
fiesli ])ink ; umbels numeruus; 
stems erect; height tW" feet. ^V 
beautiful and etf'ective plani on 
the banks nf jiduds, etc. 

Br.-iscni;i jich:it:i. Leaves pel- 
tate, one to four inches across; 
flowers small, dull, ])urple. 

Biniinnis iinihvlL-itus. (I'^lnwer- 
ing Rush). Flowers rose colored. 
A ver\' handsome perennial aqu- 
atic of eas\' cidlure. 

C;ill;i /),7/(;.s7;7s. (AVater Arum 
i)r American Calla). l-'lower rc- 
semljling the eulti\'ated Calla, imly 
smaller, six inches high; rmitstuck 
long and ci'ee]Mng. 

C;ilih:i pHlustris. (Marsli Mari- 
gold). F'ldwers liright \'e]l(i\v early 
in spring; very showy and attrac- 
tive. 

C. imhiatris fioiv-plcno. Similar 

to the preceding, save that the 

te~T^^ llowers are perfectly double, re- 

semfiling the donl)le flowers (jf 

tuberous rooted Begonias. 

Ililiisciis niosclicutns. (Swamp 
Rose Mallow). A most desirable 
plant for the aquatic garden, four 
to six feet high; flowers five to six 
inches in diameter, rose-colored or 
white, with or withi.iut a crimson 
eye. 
Iris K.-finii/'cri. (Japanese Iris). Indispensable plants in the water-garden. 
They should be planted on the margin of the pond, or where they are 




Iris K.l'mpferi. 



ILXRIiY A(.>i:\T!CS. 



occasionally subniei",L;e(.l. Flowers measure from ten to twelve inches in 
diameter, and present the greatest variety of color, from pure white to the 
darkest shades of royal purple, many with various colors marbled with white 
and ,L;old mixed. 

Iri^ p»ciid()-aci>rits. The yellow Iris of European marshes: flowers briyht 
yellow: leaves linear, loni;'. 

Iris oricntalis. Fine ornamental foliage; rich violet-blue flowers. 

Juncus ci>tiL;linncratis lol. varic<^atis. A variety of the common Rush, with 
foliage beautifully striped golden yellow. 

Limnautheniiim lacunosttm. (Floating Heart). A small aquatic with mar- 
morate foliage, much like a Cyclamen, and small white flowers. 

L. iivmplixoidcs. (Villarsia). Leaves N\-mpha;a-like ; flowers golden 
yellow, produced in jjrofiision. Seeds very freely, and where it is not winter- 
killed is liable to become a pest as it is of such vigorous growth. 

Mcnyanthta iriluliata. Flowers white, resembling those of the Horse 
Chestnut: very free growing. 

Myosotis paltistris scmpcr/lorcns. (Perpetual flowering Forget-me-not). 

Onnitium a</iiaticiiiii . (dolden Club). A very attractive and pretty 
plant with beautiful velvety green leaves, and a curious yellow spadi.x early in 
spring. 

I'chandra \lri:inua. (The Water Arum). Large, narrow-shaped foliage; 
white spadi.K. 

I'oiitcdcn'a cordata. (Pickerel Weed). A free flowering plant, growing 
about two feet high, and producing 
spikes of closely set blue flowers. 

Sagittaria sagittifolia. (The Com- 
mon Arrowhead). Flowers white. 

S. japoiiica fl. ;>l. Very similar to 
our native species, Init producing num- 
erous spikes of large, jMire white, double 
flowers. 

Scirjius /[(jIoscIkl'iius varicg'atus. A 
Siberian Rush, with stems twelve to 
eighteen inches high ; alternately banded 
with green and white. 

5>. taheriixniuiitaiia var. zcliriaa. 
(Japanese Porcupine Plant). A very 
ornamental rush, growing three to four 
feet high; delicate green, barred alter- 
nately with white. 

Typha latifolia. (The Common Cat's Tail). 

Zizania arjuatica. (Wild Rice). Aquatic annual; very ornamental in the 




Sagittaria. 



AnlATICS I'OK AnrARIA. SHALLaW U'ATI-R, HTC. loi 

water j^'arden. Its graceful panicles are i^ruduced on stalks five to ten feet 
liii^h. To be yrown in shallow water; seed should be sown in fall. 

III. ^ri, ANTS lilR AIJUARIA, SHALLOW WATER, K IC. 

Azdlht c:iniliiii;inn. (Floating Moss). Color deep yreen, reddish or autumn 
lints in full sun; resembles a Selayinella or AIoss. 

.1. tilicuUiidcs. vSimilar to the preceding, but a stronger grower; color 
brighter, and spreads rapidly, s(.ion covering the surface of the water. 

Cnlionihn cnroliniinui. (syn. C viridifolia). The Fanwort, one of the most 
pleasing of submerged plants; leaves glossv- green, finely cut. See illustration. 

C. nisa-ti/lin. Similar to C. caroliniana, but the color of the leaves is 
brownish green; stems carmine. 

Cyjicriig ahernithlius. (Umbrella (irass). See descriptii.ai, page 96. 




Cabomba. 



., C. a. f^rncilis. ( Small leaved dwarf ). See description, page 96. 
■ '^^^i. van'cL;ritus. ( X'ariegated ). See description, page qCi. 

C^Iitrichc vcnm. (AVater ,Star-wort). Leaves light green ; submerged plant. 

Hottonia pnlu^tris. (Water \'iolet). A submerged fern-like plant, with 
showy white flowers. 

Ilvdn/vlian's iii(irsiis-raii:c. (Frog-bit). Floating jjlant with light green 
cordate leaves, and fine silky roots. 

Limnuhium spoiiffia. (American Frog-bit). I'loating plant; larger and 
stronger grower than the preceding. 

Liidwlizia />,-)/Hstr/s. (Water Purslane). As a submerged plant is valuable 
for aquaria; grows also when partly submerged; leaves dark green, reddish 
underneath; fl(jwers yellow; small. 

L. Mukrttii. .Similar to L. palustris; leaves larger, dark glossv green, 
red underneath ; one of the best oxygenators for the aquarium. 



I02 Anf'ATICS FOR AOFARIA, SHALLDW WATER, ETC. 

Mvriojihvlhirn hctcrnj/hvllimi. (Water .Milfnil). Submerged plant; leaves 
green, crowded, often whorletl and pinnatirtd. 

.1/. virticillntinn Leaves very finely pinnate, dark green ; stems red. 

Nrmplnvn i>vL;iiufa, white; N. p. HelvoLn, yellow; N. Laydekeri ro^cn. red. 
See descriptions, pages 87, S9. These Water Lilies are well adapted for large 
acjuaria, and will produce their lovely flowers when growing in pots, four 
and five inches in diameter. 

Pistia stratiotc^. (Water Lettuce). Leaves two to live inches long, 
forming a rosette of light green velvety foliage. 

Potamogetoii crispus. (Pond Weed). Submerged plant: leaves l)ronzy 
green, crisped, wavy. Common in streams and stagnant water. 







Slr-iuult'S ahiides. 



Sagitiaria i;Taminca. Leaves broadly linear; flowers white; often profusely. 

S. natatis. Unlike the well-known Arrowhead the leaves here are strap- 
shaped and submerged, but in shallow water the plant produces floating 
leaves, which are occasionally spotted; flowers white. 

Salvinia hraziliensis. (syn. S. natans). A small floating plant ; leaves soft 
green, covered with delicate hairs. 

Stratiotcs aloides. (Water Aloe or Water Soldier). A submerged plant; 
dark green sj^iny foliage, similar to that of a Pandanus. 

Valli.^ncria spiralis. (Tape or Eel Grass). Ribbon-like grass, six inches to. 
three feet long; a submerged plant, and desirable for the aquarium. 



CHAPTER XVI. 



ORNAMENTAL GRASSES, BAMBOOS, ORCHIDS AND PITCHER PLANTS 

Anindn iliiunx. A nia|^nificent giant (irass, j^rowiiiL;' ti> the hci,L;ht of twelve 
to fifteen feet, and makinf;- noble clumps: invaluable tor the water i>r Ijol;' 
g-arden. See illustration, \rA\x.e 79. 

A. (I. v;iricL;-:tt;i. A varie,L;'ated form of the above, and an imposing;- object 
in any ijosition. 

Bnnilmsii mircn. A distinct and beautiful species, attainin;^ from ten to 
twelve feet m heii^ht; stems ui'olden yellow color, with liL;'iit i;'reen foliaye. 
This has pro\-ed quite hardy in Southern Xew lerse\-, where the canes ha\"e 
remained evergreen during;' the winter, followed b_v new qrowtli in the sprini;'; 
the canes attaining' a richness of color not to be seen the first season. 

B. Mctukc. \ handsome and perfectly hardy Bamboo, having;' lar^e. dee]3 
ji'reen folia.^'e : fine for mar^'in (jf water. A popular plant ; moderate heii^iit. 

B. ni^rn. Another handsome species, having glossy black stems, with 
graceful foliage of a pleasing light green color; one of the most distinct. 

B. Quilioi. A vigorous variety, growing eight to ten feet in height, but 
while hardv as far nortli as Philadelphia, does not retain its fcjliage as 11 aurea. 

B. scn'jiturhi. The mt>st distinct of anv Bamboo; its slender canes, with 
deep green foliage, the mider side a glaucous I)lue; is most pleasing and 
attractive. 

B. vimiiuilis. A distinct and dwarf-growing species, with dark green 
foliage; makes a compact liush. 

B. violasccns. A handsome and distinct species, having much branched 
stems, attaining seven to eight feet in height, clothed with graceful foliage. 

B. virklc /^Ifniccscens. A vigorous growing" species, very graceful and 
ornamental; yellow stems; glaucous green foliage, resembling B. aurea. 

Erianthus Rnvcnnfu. A Strong growing ornamental grass, resembling the 
Pampas grass, having bronzy foliage and purplish plumes; nine to twelve 
feet high. 

Eulalia grnciUinui univittata. A very ornamental grass, not so tall as the 
well-known E. japonica, with narrow leaves, long and graceful, with a distinct 
silverv midrib. 



104 



PITCHER PLAXTS OR SIDE-SADDLE ELOWERS. 



^MM 



E. jajxinicu. A vigorous grower, leaves green, and with larger plumes 
tlKin in either its varieties. 

E. japonica varic<;-ata. This variety is similar in growth to the type, with 
a creamy white band running through each leaf; very striking and distinct. 

E. japonica zchrina. (Zebra-striped Grass). A novel form of variegation; 
the long, graceful leaves having bars of yellow running crosswise, not longi- 
tudinally, as in the foregoing variety. 
It grows from six to nine feet high. 
Gvnernim argentcum. (Pampas 
Grass). One of the most effective 
of ornamental Grasses ; its silvery 
plumes are produced on stems eight 
to ten feet high. Established plants 
can remain in the open ground if 
protected. It is not hardy except in 
the vSouthern States. 

Panicitm virgatum. A tine, stately 
Grass; four to six feet high, forming 
large tufts with many panicles of 
small flowers. 

Plialaris ariuulinacca varicgata. 
A reed-like Grass with a very dis- 
tinctly white-striped leaf; two tn 
three feet high. 

Sctan'a magna. (Bristly Foxtail 
Grass). Annual. Inflorescence a 
dense panicle two to three feet long; 
pale green; a very conspicuous and 
ornamental plant; attaining a height 
of ten to twelve feet. 
I'nlf>la latitnlla. One of the best of our native perennial Grasses; three to 
four feet high, with large flat leaves; flower heads in graceful drooping panicles. 




Hul.ilia j.ip'Uiit.i zehrin.i. 



PITCHER PI..\XTS OR SI DT.-S.A DI ILE FLOWERS. 

DailingKinia calitornka. A flue bog plant, found in cool springy places in 
California, with peculiar shaped pitchers and nodding purple flowers. 

Dionwa muscipnla. (Venus' Fly Trap). A curious plant, allied to Drosera, 
having a number of prostrate leaves furnished at the edge with a thick row of 
liristle-like hairs; while in the center of each, are three short hairs, which, 
when touched, cause the leaves to fold up, entrapping the insect, which soon 
dies; when this takes place the leaf again assumes its normal position. 

Drusera Uliformis. (Thread-leaved Sundew). A most curious and interest- 
ing plant from its peculiar arrangement for catching insects. It is covered 



ORCHIDS 



'05 



throughout with fine red hairs that are covered with a ylisteniiiL;- drop, h"ke 

dew. .Should be planted in <;roups in a moist place. 
Snrrnccnin Driinimoiiill. Large 

erect pitchers or leaves; twn feet 

high; light green in c(il<n-, with 

the apex or houd, beautifully 

variegated white, red, and green; 

flowers white and purple. 

S. ffavci. Yellowish green 

leaves; two to three feet high; 

having at the apex a large open 

throat, with a broad lid; large 

nodding yellow flowers. 

v9. pshtncitui. (Parrot-beaked 

Pitcher Plant). A very pretty 

and distinct species, its small 

pitchers having a curiously curved 

lid, or apex, of a rich purple and 

crimson color, handsomeh' mot- 
tled with white. 

S. piirjjiircu. A prostrate 

species, having broad winged 

pitchers three to eight inches long. 

the throat and lid very hairv, and 

beautifully veined and striped 

crimson; large purple flowers, 

nodding on a stalk a fcjot high; perfectly hardy, ijlant in full sunshine or 
shade, on the margin of the pond or stream. 

S. rulirn. I^eaves ten to eighteen inches long, 
slender, with pur|)le veins; reddish jnirple flowers. 

S. vnriolaris. Leaves trumpet-shaped ; six to twelve 
inches high, spotted with white near the yellowish apex, 
reticulated with purple veins within; yellow flowers. 

With exception of S. purpurea, all are tender north 
of Carolina States, and need protection of leaves in 
winter, or may be grown in a greenhouse, 
delight in boggy soil, and live sphagnum moss. If 
in pots, they should be set in saucers of water. 

Sarracenia. 

ORClUllS. 

Calopogon piilchcUus. ( )ne of the most beautiful of our native Orchids, and 
most desirable for the water garden ; leaf linear; .scape about one foot high; 
two to six flowers; flower one inch broad, pink-purple; lip beautifully bearded 
toward the summit with white, yellow, and purple hairs. 




Dion.ta musL'ipul.i. (Venus' Fl\ Trjp.) 




They 
r(_iwn 



ic6 



ORCHIDS. 



Cnlvpso horealia. A small showy flower, the solid bulb producino- a single 

heart-shaped leaf ; scape three to five inches high, bearing- a large and showy 

flower, variegated purple, pink, and yellow. 

Cvj>npedium puhescena. (Large Yell(nv Lady's-slipper). Leaves broadly 

ovate; stem two feet high; lip one and one half to two inches long, pale yellow. 
C. spectahile. (Showy Lady's-sljpper). Leaves ovate; stem two feet high ; 

liji one and one-half inches long, much inflated; white, pink-purple. The 

most beautiful of the hardy 
Cypripedinms. No genus of 
Orchids is more widely distri- 
buted than Cypripedium. ( )ur 
native species are most beauti- 
ful, particularly this one, they 
are deserving of more general 
cultivation, and no better place 
can be found than the water 
garden, the natural or wild 
garden adjacent. They delight 
in a moist, peaty, or boggy soil, 
and partial shade. 

Hn hcnn tin hlcj)harigk> 1 1 is . 
(White Fringed Orchid). Stem 
one foot long; leaves lanceolate; 
flowers white; lip ovate, with 
an irregular capillary fringe. 

Hciliaris. (Yellow Fringed 
Orchid). Stem one and one-half 
to two feet high; leaves oblong 
or lanceolate; spike oblong, 
with numerous flowers, which 
are bright orange yellow ; lip 
oblong, furnished with a very 
long and copious capillary 
fringe; our most handsome 
species. 

//. psycodes. ( P u r p 1 e 
Fringed Orchid). A very 

handsome and fragrant Orchid; one to three feet high; flowers purple, 

crowded in a spike four to ten inches in length. 

Spinwthcs cennwi. (Ladies' Tresses). A delicate and beautiful white and 

very fragrant flower, produced on a stem six to twenty inches high ; spike two 

to five inches long; more or less spirally twisted: flowers in September and 

October. 




Cypripedium Spectabile. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

FERNS SUITABLE FOR THE AQUATIC GARDEN- 

TIllC I'RlNCiF^ i)f tliL- water garden is an ideal place for F'crns, As cmliel- 
lishnients fur sluuly spots where few other plants will grow, Ferns will 
give most gratifying results. < )n the margin of the pond where partial shade 
is afforded or not, on a l)ank Ijy the side of a running stream, or associated with 
c_)ther plants on the rockery, their graceful fronds lend a nK.ist welcome and 
desirable change of foliage. 

\Viiat I'V'rns do love — nay, demand — is plenty of moisture; in preparing a 
place for their reception, then, care should he taken that the S(->il be so drained 
that while the Ferns can have plenty of the moisture they need, there shall be 
no standing water about their roots. 

As to soil, all Ferns thrive best in a light porous earth. If the soil is 
"made" the [.iriiportions sh(iuld lie about one-third sand and two-thirds good 
leaf mold, with, perhaps, some peat added. Ilowex'er, most Ferns in the 
following list will grow well in almost any garden soil. 

Ferns love shade as much as thev do moisture, and while there are 
several species that will grow in the o])en sunlight and present a fresh and 
green appearance, these very species do much better and throw up finer 
and larger fronds when in shade. Some, however, are not lovers of deep 
shade, and seem to attain their best development in open woods or half shade. 

The best time for transplanting is either very early in spring or in the 
fall. (.Generally, any time after midsummer will do. The majority of Ferns 
produce in spring a set (jf fronds which last through the summer, no new ones 
being produced. These species should be transplanted if possible, while the 
plants are resting, but if not, they may be taken up carefully at other seasons. 
Those which send up fronds all summer may generally be transplanted at any 
time, and, if cared for, for a few days, will begin again to produce new fronds. 



io8 FI:K'.\S SI/TAULI; for Till- AOFATIC CARDHN. 

Ferns rather resent much digging about their roots, but if the soil, 
moisture, and shade are right, they will continue to grow larger and better 
each year. 

In winter the species enumerated will need no iirotection except, perhaps, 
a li''lit co\-erin<'" of leaves. 




AJiantum ped:itum. 



Aflmntum jicd-num. (Maiden Hair). ]'>ight inches t" two feet high. 
vStem forked, the divisions once to thrice pinnate. (Imws from a creeping 
rootstock, sending up fronds all summer. Rich leaf mold in damp shade. 
Found in damp woodlands and hillsides. 



fi:h:\s sriTMU.i: /'ok riii: .\nr.\ric (,.\i<i>i:x. ,o<) 

As/ilciiiimi ;icr'>slicliiililvs. (Silvcf)- Sl>lL'CIl\Viirt ). ( )lK' In tWn fcL't lli.^h. 
I'^i'niuls nearly iwicc ]iinHatc, in a cirelc frmil a short riinistnek. Rich woods 
in leaf nioKl. 

.1. ;ii!L;ustiluliiiin. ( NaiTow-leaved Splecnwort ). < )ne to three feet hi^li. 
I'innate; fionds very tliin, the fertile somewhat narrower than the sterile. 
In shade only. l""ound in damp rich woods. I'n.mds in a circle in early 
snmmer. 

,1. tilix-frciuinn. (T.ady fei'n). Si.\ inches to five feet. Twice pinnate; 
sometimes nearh' thrice pinnatitid. firows in chimps sendin;^' n\i fronds in 
earh" summer. Prefers rich open woods, but thrives in damp places in 
sunlight. 

Cvsiii/)tcris fniixili^. (Fragile liladder Fern), l-'rondsin clumps five to twelve 
inches liiL^li. Twice or thrice pinnate. Fronds fra;;ile, produced during spring 
and early sumnn'r. I)amp soil in rich earth, will stand some sun. 

DicksDiiia puiictiliiliulu. ( Flay-scented Fern, Mountain Fern, Sweet I-'ern). 
Two to three feet long, from slender rootstoeks that creep extensively. Fronds 
tri-pinnatifid, sweet-scented when crushed. Usually found in upland rocky 
woods and pastures, (rrows well in leaf mold. 

Drvii/itcn's acrastichoidcs. (Christmas Fern). I'.vergreen. ()iic to two and 
one-half feet long. Fronds thick, produced in a circle from a short thick root 
slock early in spring. < )nce pinnate. In damp shade in nearly any soil. Fronds 
used for Christmas decorations. 

/'. crisi;it;i. (Crested Shield I'Vrn). ( )ne to three and one half feet long. 
Fronds narrow and erect, in circles from a short rootstock. Pinnate, the pinn;e 
pinnatifid. (!rows natTirall\' in swamps and damp open woods. 

/'. c. Cliiii<ini;in;i. Is a lari^er form of the aliove. 

/'. (iiililic:iii:i. (<ioldie's vShicld Fern). Two tcj four feet high. Fronds 
ovate, r.earh- thrice ]nnnatifid: from a short rootstock in circles in eai'ly 
summer. Dee]") shade in very rich leaf mold. A magnificent species. 

// nintiiiiuilis. (Marginal Shield Fern). <3ne to three feet high. Fronds in 
spring fi'oni a shint, erect, rootstock; twice jiinnate. F'ronds in circles. \\"\\\ 
stand sonic sun, but prefers shade, and will grow in almost an\' soil. Nearly 
evergreen. 

D. novcliDnitciisis. (Xew Yi u'k I'ern ). Thin and delicate. fJne to three feet 
high. Nearly twice pinnate. I»ecp shade in rich earth, h'oliage fragrant 
when crushed. I'ronds in early summer. 

/*. sjiinulosn and its varieties iulcnncdin aii(l tlll:a;iL:i. (Spinulose or Bristiv 
Shield I'eni). < )ne to three feet high. In circular crowns from a shcjrt, erect 
rootstock. Fronds produced in spring; about thrice jjinnate, the pinnules 
tip]ied with bristles. Rich woodlands. Nearly evergreen. 

I). I'xiiitlii. Resembles the preceding. 

D. Tliclypteris. (Lady F'ern. j\Iarsh Shield Fern). One to three feet high. 
Bi-pinnatifid, produced from running root.stoeks nearl}^ all summer. Gi^ows in 



no FERXS SriTABLE FOR THE AOl'ATIC iLXkDEX. 

sun or shade in peaty soil or leaf mold. Its usual habitat being swamps and 
borders of streams. 

Lvgodium pnlmututn. (Climliing Fern ). Three to six feet long. Pinna 
roundish, five to seven lobed. (irows in swamps near the Atlantic seaboard, 
twining- about the bushes, usually in half shade. Rootstock slender, creeping. 

Onnclea scn^ihilis. (Sensitive Fern). Sterile fronds one to three feet high. 
Broadly triangular, ovate, nearly pinnate. Fertile fronds produced late in the 
season, the divisions rolled up into berry-like objects. Both kinds of fronds 
from a creeping rootstock, the sterile produced all summer. Will grow in any 
soil, in Sim or shade, its natural home being the borders of streams, sw.amps, 
and wet v^'oodlands. 

(). Stnitliioptcris. (( )strich Fern). ( )urtallest Fern, one to ten feet high, in 
a crown of twenty or more fronds. Sterile fronds twice pinnatifid, oblanceo- 
late in outline. Fertile fronds produced late in theseason, their divisions rolled 
up much as in (). scnaihilis. I-Janks of streams and wet open woods in sandy 
soil or leaf mold. Will stand sun all day, but grows best in partial shade, at 
least. Spreads by offsets at the ends of long runners. 

Onmiindn CL-ivtoiiintui. (Interrupted Flowering Fern. Clayton's Fern). 
One to four feet high. Bi-pinnatifid. Fronds in crown of si.K to twelve, from 
a very thick rootstock in early spring. Fertile fronds, have part of the middle 
of the frond turned to spore-bearing organs. Found in swamps and pastures. 
Will stand sun or shade, but requires rather rich soil. 

O. tinnamomca. (Cinnamon Fern). One to five feet high. Fronds in large 
crowns in early spring from an exceedingly heavy rootstock; bi-])innatifid. 
Fertile fronds produced in early spring, from the midst of the sterile, i>ut un- 
like them are short, thick, club-.shaped, the green portion changed to myriads 
of little spore cases, of a bright brown color when ripe. Will stand sun or 
shade, if the soil is wet. (irows naturally in swamps, pastures, and low 
grounds. 

O. rcL;:ilis. (Royal Fern. Flowering Fern). One to six feet high. 
Twice pinnate, the pinnules usually orbicular. Fronds in circular clumps from 
a very thick, stout, erect rootstock. Fruiting panicle at the end of the fronds. 
Will grow in sun or shade. Its natural habitat is swamps and wet woodlands, 
where it is often found growing in shallow water; will grow also in drier situ- 
ations. Fronds in spring and early summer. 

I'hcgoptcrk Drvoptcrh. (Oak Fern), Three to twelve inches high. Frond 
teruate (like three Ferns in one), the division stalked and bi-pinnate. Root- 
stock creeping and producing fronds all summer. Mcjist rich places in shade 
only. 

P. Phcffoptcn'^. (Beech Fern). Three to ten inches high. Fronds 
triangular, nearly twice pinnate. Rootstock running; fronds all summer. 
Damp woods, usually in stony soil in rich earth. Does not endure the sun. 

Pteris aquilina. (Bracken, Brake, Eagle Fern). One to six feet high; 



i-i:rxs smwiiLH i'or thi- .\<ji\\tic c,.\i<iii:s. m 

usually almut two nr three feet hiyh. Fronds triangular, the divisions twice 
jiinnate. Grows from a long, slender, running rootstock deep in the earth; 
fronds during early summer. Nearly any soil except clay; will endure full 
sunlight and dry soil, liut is best in damp shade. Comninn throughout the 
World. 

\\'(iii(hv:inli:i ;irciihU;i. (Chain Ferr,). ( )ne to two feet high. Fronds of 
twij kinds; the fertile nearly pinnate with narrow divisions, the sterile broader, 
and produced earlier. Prefers salt water marshes and is found in America, 
mostly along the Atlantic seaboard. 

W. virginica. (Chain Fern). Two to four feet high. Nearly twice 
pinnate. Rootstock thick, creeping; fronds produced in early summer. 
Prefers a peaty soil in half shade. Grows naturally in bogs in Eastern North 
America. 

The IlDtrychiuiiis nr Grape Ferns, B. yirginiumitn and li. tcnuitiim \\\\.h 
its varieties, are nut true Ferns, but are sometimes cultivated. They have 
ternate, much divided fronds, and bear spores in a transformed part of the 
frond. They are natives of dark, damp woodlands, and will thrive if ^iven the 
same surroundings in the Fern garden. 




CHAPTER XVIil. 

HARUY PHRENNIAI. PLANTS 

SUl lAIU.K 1-OR MAK<'.INS Of PONDS AN'l) MOISf CKOl'NDS. 

Acliillcn lllificnihihi. A viijorous showy species, with g'oklen yellow flowers 
in dense llat corvnihs, on stout stems, three to four feet hi^'h; foliai^e \ery 
handsome; flowers from July to October. 

Anisonin tnlicni ni(ini:iu:i. I'ale lavender-blue (lowers in May and June in 
broad clnsters. 

Arisxma tn'iilivlluni. (Jack-in-the-Pul])it). An aroid, twelve to eii;liteen 
inches high, with a turnip-shaped eorni. Spathe green, or often variegated 
with dark purple and whitish stripes or spots, and much hooded at the summit. 
An interesting and showy plant. 

Armcrin m.-iritini/i. (Sea Pink). A pretty species, jiroducing from a 
crowded tuft of leaves heads of bright colored flowers; and v;ir. " I'iiik llciiuy." 
a pretty pink variety. 

.Isc/tyi/.ws n;/)t(os.-/. (Ihitterfly Weed). Compact umbels of brilliant orange 
colored flowers on stems two feet high; very showy and effective in masses. 

Aster ohloni^ifolin:^. Forms a compact bushy ])lant with numerous violet- 
purple flowers with yellow centers. Good for the wild garden. 

distiin m.-iriliindic-i. (.American Senna). A plant growing fn^mi three to 
four feet high, l)ushy, with large panicles of curiously shajied, bright yellow 
flowers in aliundant a.xiliary clusters The beautiful pinnate light green 
foliage is very pleasing. A very desirable plant. 

Clcni;itis I):i\i(linnn. A fine species, bearing large axillary clusters of 
fragrant blue Hyacinth-like flowers; grows three feet high, and is erect in habit. 

C. cicctit. (Upright \'irgin's Bower). An erect species, two to four feet, 
with ilense panicles of small white flowers in early summer. 

C. intc}^rifolia. An erect species, one to two feet high, witli blue, \-ery 
fragrant, solitary nodding flowers, one to two inches across. 

C. luherosa. A showy erect species, similar to Clematis Uavidiana, but 
with dark purple flowers in summer. 

Dcsiiiodium pciululitiorum. This beautiful plant Ijlooms in late summer, 
producing large clusters of reddish-purple, pea-like flowers. 



UAKDY l'!:h'!:.\.\l.\I. I'l.AXrS. 



I>icciitr;i c\inii;i. {I'liiiiiy l-jleedilli; Heart). Leaves as ^raeel'iil as those mI' 
a fern; llowei's ri)se-ciili>r, in i^raeefnl iMeenies, appeai'ini; all siuniner. l'"i:i" 
beauty nf fnlia;^e and its ennstanl hlooniin.L;' 4ualities, une ul' the ehuieesl of 
jK'rennials. 

!>. sjifct;iliills. ( )ne of the best known perennials, with L;raeetul, dioopin;^ 
raeemes of liearl-slia|)ed llowers, of rosy eiinisoii and sil\'erv white. 

Diironicuui /il:iiit;iL;iiiciini cxcclsiim. A beautiful, spring llowerini;, hardy 
perennial, having; larL;e gulden yellow (lowers, loni' inelu's in diameter. Needs 
a rieh moist s<iil. 

i^chin:iL-c;i :ini;iislilnliH. I'doWers rosv purple, iu sumniei'and fall; eighteen 
to twentx'-four inches hi^h. 

lilriiucdiuni ;iljiiiiuni. Neat foliage and airy clusters (jf purplisli antl )cllow 
llowers of cpiaint shape. 

/;'. ni;icr:iinliuin. A very Ijeautiful species from Jalian; pure white (lowers 
in spring. 'Jdie handsomest of the yenus and one (.)f the earliest S])rini.;- 
llowers. 

Hrvn^iimi :ilinnnni. A very pretty ])lant, with blue tlower heads in J tdy 
and AuL;ust. Height two feet. 

/:. viicaulolhuu. A distinct native species, with ^'uccalike spiny folia.^e 
and white flowers in summer; two feet. 

I^rvlhroniiini ;i!ncric;irnrni. (i)o^'s Tooth X'iolct). flowers bright yellow; 
noddin.i;', sprint^', scape si.\ to ei^lit inches hi^h; lca\'es pale .Ljreen, mottled 
purplish. 

I-Jii/i;Ui>iiiiiii .■ii;vr;n<nilcs. A fine species, with corymbs ot pure wiiitc 
llowers in midsummei". Two to three feet. 

ihipllorliin cnni/l:il;i^ (Flow- 
erini;- Spuri^r). A t.ill lu-anchini; 
plant, with pni'e white flowers oi- 
]n"operl\' iiu'ohicres. fine lor 
cuttiuL;' from Inly to < )ctol)cr. 
Two lo three feet. 

I'iinki:i siilic<inl,-U;r (White 
ri,,ntain Lil\). Lar.-e. I>ilydike 
llowers, pure white, in Au.^ust. 

/•'. ■■ 77;os. //oi,.i,.," ( )ne of the 
very best; foliai^e beantiftdly 
banded; with ])urL' white autl 
lar^e pur|)lish-lilac llowei'sin Sep- 
teml)ei'. 

('•cnti:iii;i .\n(lic\v<ii. (Closed 
(lentian). Flowers of a fine blue, an inch h'ui;', appearinL; in late autmnn. In 
any good garden soil, especially sandy and moist, this attractive and native 
species improves greatly under cultivation. 




Funkia. 



114 II.XRKV I'HREXSI.M. I'LAXTS. 

(•niiioln niirca. (Hedye Hyssop). A prett\\ hardy Nurtli American 
plant with bright yellow flowers. It thrives in rich moist soil, but treated as 
an aquatic it does still better. 

dillcniii trllblintn. (Bowman's Root). The reddish stems bear handsomely 
cut foliage and slender panicles of white flowers, sometimes tinged with rose. 
The branches of the panicles are so slender that at a little distance the long 
petalcd flowers appear to be floating in the air. Two to three feet. 

(i\/isophiIa j)auwiil;it;i. A most beautiful hardy perennial and forms a 
mass, as broad as tall, of thread-like stems, with abundant small white flowers. 
\'erv graceful. ^lidsimimer to early autumn. Two to three feet. 

llcliaiithiis Maxiiniliaiii. A large growing, free-flowering species which 
remains in bloom until late in autumn, and is not injured by ordinary frosts. 
Should be placed where it can have abtmdaut room. vSix to eight feet. 

//. mollis. (iJowny Sunflower). A downy white-leaved sort from 
'i'ennessee, with large heads of deep yellow flowers. Two to three feet. 

//. or<,'r.-i//s. (Graceful Sunflower). Flowers three to four inches diam- 
eter, produced in great abundance. T>eaves long and narrow and very smooth. 
The habit of this species is erect and very graceful. Si.x. to ten feet. 

llcnicrocallis atirantiaca major. A new Japanese variety of vigorous habit 
and free blooming. The large trumpet-shaped flowers are of a deep orange 
color, the best of all the Day Lilies. Sui:)posed to be a natural hybrid. 

//. Ihimorticn. (Day Lily). A most beautiful and useful plant, with long, 
broad, radical leaves, and clusters of Lily-like flowers of a soft, rich yellow, 
exterior bronzy orange; of great substance and deliciously fragrant. 

//. flava. One of the very best hardy perennials, and should be found in 
everv garden, (iolden yellow, very fragrant flowers on stems two ami one-half 
feet high. 

II. Kwanso varicL;ala. lias broad, beautifully variegated foliage; very 
ornamental even when uol in bloom. 

llr/icriciim j)yraml(lalis. ((ireat St. John's Wort). Three to five feet. A 
rolnist species, with flowers two to three inches across, which aiwenr in sum- 
mer; very showy and fine for borders. 

Iris oricntalis. Fine, ornamental foliage; rich, violet-blue (lowers. 

/. versicolor. (Blue Flag). A strong growing species, two feet high; with 
violet-bhie flowers, with white and purple veins. 

Lohclia canlinalis. (Cardinal Flower). One of the finest scarlet flowered 
hardv plants, of easy culture in any moist soil. 

L. s\i)hilitica. (Great Blue Lobelia). (Irows in similar situations with the 
above, and, like that, is well worth cultivating. It has larger flowers than 
cardinalis, of a clear blue color of varying .shades. 

Liliiim siipcrhum. Flowers bright orange, with dark purple spots; fine for 
naturalizing in moist spots or planting among low growing shrubs. 



II.XKDY l'i;h'i:.\.\'l.\L I'l.AXTS. 



Lisini;iclii;i cktliidiilc^. A fine liardv plant frimi Japan, with lim^; deiisf. 
recurved spikes of pnre white flnwers in summer. ( )netot\vn feet. 

McrtLiisi.i vii-i;inic;i ( \'irL;inian Cnwslip. Blue-liells). ( )ne of the most 
beautiful of our native S|.irinf;- llowers, ^'rowinj;' about eighteen inehes hi^h; 
leaves bluish .L;'reen ; loni;' droojiiu.i;" chisters of lox'ely blue flowers; the 
llower bnds are a delieate shade of pink without trace of blue while the 

expanded tlowers have no 
trace of pink. 

Pn rila n t li lis c b in c n s is . 
( I'dackberry Lilv). Irisdike 
foliage; orange colored 
llowei's, S])otted with crim- 
son. The cluster of seeds 
when the capsule opens is 
exposed, and apjiears like a 
lar^c ripe blackberry. The 
resemblance is so perfect 
that l.)irds and insects are 
deceived by it. China, three 
to four feet. 
J'lilnniis tiilierosa. (Jerusalem 
Sa.i;e). A tall and vigorous plant, with 
dense whorls of purple flowers. Three 
to Hve feet. 

Phvtiostci;'in viri^inicn. ( X'irginia 
1 )ragon-hcad ). Numerous one-sided 
spikes of purplish-rcd llowers all sum- 
mer. Three to four feet. 

I'vrciJiniiu iihi^iiinsmii . ((liant 

Oaisy). A yrand fall bloominy plant, 
growing five feet high and covered 
with large white flowers with yellow 
centers; needs a moist, rich soil. 
Rlicxia viri;inic:i. (Meadow IJeanty). iMght to twelve inches; neat foliage 
with l)road, rosy purple petals, against which the very large, bright yellow 
stamens show in strong contrast. A lieautiful and remarkable plant. 
Salvia [latciis Brilliant blue flowers. About two feet. 

S. I'itchcri. A ver)' large showy species, with large dee|) blue tlowers. 
Four to five feet. 

Silphitim intcL;rifnliiiiii^ ( iMitire Leaved Compass Plant). These jjlants are 
all tall and coarse growing, with yellow .Sunflower-like blossoms. Fine for 
naturalizing in semi-wild places. 




ii6 



IIAKIiY I'l-REXXIAL I'LAXTS. 



IS vcr_v laryc f()li;ii;c, prettily cut. 









S. I;iciiii;ilinir (Compass Plant). H: 
Tlic lar-cst lli>wered of all. 

S. pcrliili.-itiini. (Cup I'lant). The large opposite leaves unite around the 
square stem, forming a cavity or cup; large yellow flowers. Western U. S. 
Five to seven feet. 

SpiriL'n ;ininciis. (Goat's Beard). Producing in summer long feathery 
panicles of innumerable white flowers, forming a graceful, gigantic plume. 
Three to five feet 

>S'. tilipcndiihi. 11. /il. Numer- 
ous corymbs of double white 
flowers and pretty fern like foli- 
age. 

S. k;iintscli:nic;i i)i\i;ii;;intc;i. 
A gig-antic species, with large 
panicles of white flowers and 
vine-like foliage a foot across; 
succeeds well in moist soil and 
jiartial shade. Six to nine feet. 

S. liil>;U;i. A showy, red 
flowering species; very frag- 
rant, growing four to Ave feet. 

S. pnlnint.-i. Ja])au; one of 
the most beautiful hardy plants 
in cultivation. The deep i)urple- 
red of the stems and branches, 
passing into the crimson-purple 
of tlie broad cor\'ml)Sof flowers, 
will be found to c<intrast most 
extpiisitelv with the foliage, which assumes l)eautiful tints of brown and gold. 

Thuliciniiii i;l:iiuiini. .\ species from South l'>urope, with eU.-ganlly cut 
grayish foliage and large panicles of bright yellow flowers in June and July. 
Three to four feet. 

T. i>uri>urcuin. .\ tall, purplish, or whitish flowered species suitable for 
the wild garden. I'our to eight feet. 

T. sfKxidsiiiri. A line, large, yellow- flowered sort, with handsome leaves. 
Three to five feel. 

77;crmo/)s/s cnnilinl.ui.i. A showy native i)lant, with long spikes of Lupin- 
like yellow flowers in summer. (Srowsfive feet high. 

TriUium griuidHlorum. < )ne of our best native si)ring flowering plants, 
(irowth ten inches high, with a single pure white flower three inches across. 

Trollitia eurojKciis. (European Globe Flower). A jiretty plant, with large, 
lemon-colored. Buttercup-like flowers, one to one and one-half inches across, 
and borne on long stems. 




Splr.i-.i p.iliii.it.t. 



IIAk'!)] /'/;A7;.V.\7.1/. /7..1.V7S. 1,7 

T. j:il,<,nicu~~. (Japan (lluljc FIuwlt). Similar to llic abuvc, but with lart^c 
iJiMiinc lldwers ap|>caiinL; in eai'lv spi-ing'. 




Trillium. 



Vcniuiii:i n(i\ch(ir:iLcii'iis. (New York Iron Weed). I'luwers of a dark 
purple, in larye c\'nies in autumn ; makes a line plant for semi-wild i^ai'den 
or isolated ])ositions in rich soil. Two to six feet. 

\'cn)iiic:i suhscssilis. This is, without doubt, the finest of all the hardv, 
lieiii.ieeous Speedwells in eultivatiun. The llower spike is large, as are also 
the individual flowers, the color of which is a brilliant, deep, amethystine blue, 
a color which contrasts strikingiv with the rich yreell foliaye. It is a |a])ancse 
plant, and perfectly hardy. < )nc to two feet. 



CHAPTER IX. 

HARDY SHRUBS AND TREES 

I'OR WKT A.N'D Mdlsr SnUAIIONS, MARCHNS OF PONDS, LAK.KS, Kl'C. 

Aiuiromccla arborcn. This makes a large shrub, being a more robust species 
than anv other. Fknvers ereamy white, borne in \avge racemes, Gracefully 
cui'ved. The foliage assumes the rich autumn tints so much admired. 




A. Blast. 
pyriKllteil ISSH 



Clethra alniiolja. 



.1. calvculata. A low evergreen shrub, two to three feet high, blooming 
piofuselv in March and April. Flowers pure white, in curving racemes. 

,1. Catcshxi. A beautiful spring flowering shrub; two to four feet 
in height, with long spreading and recurved liranches. 

.1. fliirihtinda. A densclv flowered shrul), two to six feet in height. !Mav. 



lIARliY SlIkTllS AM) TRHIJS. 



119 



A. ligu^trinn A lar^e j^Tiiwiny species; six to ten feet lii.i^li, with laru;e 
panieles of creamy while llnwers in June. 

.1. Mnriniiii. \ \Lry desirable shrub, three Id four feet hii^h, wit1i dark, 
i^liissy leaves that turn tn brilliant red in fall. The llnwers are |)Ui-e waxy 
white, appearing very early in sjirint;'. 

,4. inccniiisn. A species with fcjliai^e like an Azalea, and ^rowini;- three tn 
six feet hi,L;h, pmduciny countless racemes of pearly-white Ijell-shaped flowers 
in June, which are extjuisitely frai^rant, resemblintr Pond Lilies. 

Aanlcn visciis;i. < )ne of the most beautiful of native species; five to eight 

feet high. Mowers purr white and verv fragrant; blooming, June t<i August. 

C;ilvc;(i]tliiis thn-idii^. 'I'lie well-known " Sjiice Shrul.)," "Sweet" or 

" Strawlierry Sh rub," 
commoulv so called. The 
deep chocolate -colored 
flowers have a rich, fruity 
fragrance. 

Ccjiluilnntlins nvculcn- 
t.-iH-,. { llutton Hush). A 
shrul I of moderate growth ; 
two to four feet high, pro- 
ducing" dense heads of 
white tlowers in July and 
August. 

CIctlini ;ilnifnh';i. ( )ne 
of the best nati\e shrulis. 
and verv desirable; grow- 
ing about three feet high, 
and covered with a great 
quantity <jf creamy white, 
intensely fragrant flowers 
in spikes six inches long. 
k.iimu, uiiitui..!. Ilex (i/i;ic!i. (American 

Hollv). This is one of our 
finest native evergreens; its dark green foliage and bright red berries make 
it a most attractive and very ornamental tree. 

Ik-x vcrtkilha:i. (Black Alder. Winterberry ). A dwarf deciduous shrub; 
verv desirable for the bog garden; fruit bright red. 

hfii vin^inwn. A fine hardy shrub; growing- from four to six feet high 
and producing numerous racemes of pure white flowers in June. One of our 
finest shrubs, with beautiful red foliage in autumn. 

Kalmia ann'ustUhlm The Kalmias are unrivaled in beauty of foliage and 
flowers, and deserving of extended cultivation. A dwarf species; one to two 
feet high; flowers liright rose color. 




lIARliY SIIKCnS AM) TRHES 



K. Intifolin. (American Laurel). The most beautiful evergreen llnwering 

shrub in eultivaticm. Flowers profuse, large and very showy, varying from 

deep rose color to nearly white in June; height four to eight feet. 

Li(iukhunhiir stvrnciflitn. (Sweet Gum Tree). A very ornamental tree in 

the water garden and in moist places; leaves smooth and shiny, five to seven 

lobed, pointed, fragrant when bruised, and turning deep erims(jn in autumn. 

Young trees are covered with gray bark in deej) corky ridges. 

MngiKilin _i:l:iut:i. ( )ne of the finest of the Magnolias; leaves deep green 

above and glaucous white on the under sitle. Flowers waxy white; three 

inches in diameter, and richly fragrant. 

.Vi-ss.-/ iiuiltiHont. ( iV'pperidge. Sour Gum Tree). A most beautiful tree 

of striking- and characteristic appear- 
ance. Foliage rich and glassy as 
though it were varni.shed ; turning- 
bright crimson in autumn. 

I'uuhiw nin impvrinlis. One of the 
finest tlowering trees from Japan; it is 
fine in leaf as well as the bloom ; the 
leaves are about a foot long, trilobed 
and down v. The tU>wers are produced 
on erect spikes, resembling the well 
known Catalpa, but the flowers are 
larger and are a delicate mauve-jMirple, 
l)lotched >side with a deeper tint. As 
a foliage plant for the sul)tropical 
garden it is invahtalile; the young 
sht)ots shoidd be cut down annually, 
the young strong shoots making rapid 
growth and ])roducing large hand- 
some leaves. See illustration page 59. 
The Ailanthus is also a valuable tree, 
treated precisely the same; the long- 
pinnate leaves are very ornamental, 
light, and graceful. 
/'i-;-(/s nrhutilnlin. A dwarf shrub with elegant flowers like miniature apple 

blossoms; lollowed hv clusters of bright red berries that remain until late in the 

winter. 

S;ili\ h:ilivl<iiuc:i. | Weeping Willow). A most desirable tree near the 

water's edge; its long pendant branches and soft green linear foliage are most 

graceful and jiicturesque. 

Viicciuiuui cnrvinliiisuni. (Swamp liluebcrry). This is a very ornamental 

shrub, either in blossom or fruit, but is mostly esteemed for its fine large fruit; 

heiuht five to ten feet. 




Mai^noli.! (j!auca. 



